Using Salmonella nanoparticles to enhance cancer immunotherapy
Official title: Salmonella derived nanoparticles for cancer immunotherapy
Funded at Johns Hopkins University · NIH-11035857 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is exploring how tiny particles made from Salmonella can help boost the immune system's fight against HPV-related head and neck cancer, making it easier for the body to target and attack cancer cells.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Johns Hopkins University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Baltimore, United States) |
| Project start | May 1, 2025 |
| Project end | April 30, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $204,688 |
| NIH project number | 1R21DE034547-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-11035857 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are patients diagnosed with HPV-associated head and neck cancer who are seeking innovative treatment options.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with non-HPV-related cancers or those who are not eligible for immunotherapy may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the use of Salmonella-derived nanoparticles to improve cancer immunotherapy, particularly for HPV-associated head and neck cancer. The approach focuses on enhancing the immune response by utilizing genetically modified proteins that can effectively stimulate dendritic cells, which are crucial for activating CD8+ T cells that target tumors. By creating longer-lasting forms of these proteins, the study aims to improve the body's ability to generate a strong and localized immune response against cancer cells.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective and less harmful treatments for patients with HPV-associated head and neck cancer.
How similar studies have gone: Other research has shown promise in using nanoparticles for cancer immunotherapy, indicating that this approach may have a strong potential for success.
Where this research is happening
-
Johns Hopkins University
Baltimore, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Hung, Chien-Fu — Johns Hopkins University
- Study coordinator: Hung, Chien-Fu
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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.