Using radiation and immune cells to improve treatment for liver cancer

Radiation and dendritic cells to hepatomas to improve immunotherapy response

NIH-funded research Mayo Clinic Rochester · NIH-10911912

This study is testing a new way to treat liver cancer by using radiation therapy along with special immune cells to help your body fight the tumor better, especially if surgery isn't an option for you.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionMayo Clinic Rochester NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Rochester, United States)
Project IDNIH-10911912 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates a new approach to treating hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), the most common type of liver cancer, by combining radiation therapy with the injection of immune cells called dendritic cells. The goal is to enhance the immune response against the tumor, particularly for patients with unresectable disease. By using high-dose radiation followed by the injection of these specialized cells, the researchers aim to improve the presentation of tumor antigens to the immune system, potentially leading to better patient outcomes. The study builds on promising results from a pilot study where some patients showed significant responses to this combined treatment.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are patients with unresectable hepatocellular carcinoma who have not responded adequately to existing therapies.

Not a fit: Patients with resectable liver tumors or those who have already received multiple lines of treatment may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved survival rates and better treatment responses for patients with advanced liver cancer.

How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown promising results with similar approaches, indicating potential for success in this novel treatment strategy.

Where this research is happening

Rochester, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.