Using plant virus nanoparticles to improve cancer immunotherapy outcomes
Official title: CPMV-Polymer Devices to Enhance the Outcomes of Intratumoral Immunotherapy
Funded at University of California, San Diego · NIH-10979458 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is testing a new treatment that uses tiny particles from cowpea plants to help your immune system fight tumors better, making it easier and more comfortable for you to receive the therapy.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of California, San Diego NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (La Jolla, United States) |
| Project start | August 1, 2024 |
| Project end | July 31, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $619,294 |
| NIH project number | 1R01CA293936-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-10979458 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include patients with solid tumors, particularly those who may benefit from enhanced immunotherapy approaches.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with non-solid tumors or those who are not eligible for immunotherapy may not receive benefits from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on developing a novel immunotherapy using cowpea mosaic virus (CPMV) nanoparticles to enhance the immune response against tumors. By injecting these nanoparticles directly into tumors, the therapy aims to activate immune cells in the tumor microenvironment, promoting a stronger and more durable antitumor immunity. The approach addresses challenges in drug delivery, such as high fluid pressure in tumors and the need for multiple injections, by utilizing slow-release formulations that could improve patient comfort and treatment efficacy.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective cancer treatments with fewer side effects and improved patient outcomes.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results with similar nanoparticle-based immunotherapies, indicating potential for success in this novel approach.
Where this research is happening
-
University of California, San Diego
La Jolla, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Steinmetz, Nicole Franziska — University of California, San Diego
- Study coordinator: Steinmetz, Nicole Franziska
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About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.