Using SAMHD1 to enhance radiation and immune therapy for breast cancer
Official title: Exploiting SAMHD1 in Directing Radiation and Immunologic Dynamics
Funded at Emory University · NIH-11168213 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at a protein called SAMHD1 to see if it can help make radiation therapy and immune treatments work better for people with triple-negative breast cancer, which can be tough to treat.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Emory University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Atlanta, United States) |
| Project start | April 1, 2025 |
| Project end | March 31, 2030 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $645,949 |
| NIH project number | 1R01CA301614-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-11168213 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are breast cancer patients, especially those with triple-negative breast cancer who have not responded well to existing therapies.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with non-breast cancers or those who have already had significant treatment responses may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how SAMHD1, a protein involved in DNA repair and immune response, can be targeted to improve the effectiveness of radiation therapy combined with immune checkpoint inhibitors in breast cancer treatment. The study aims to understand the role of SAMHD1 in regulating immune responses and DNA damage repair, particularly in triple-negative breast cancer, which often shows poor response to current therapies. By exploring novel strategies that leverage SAMHD1's functions, the research seeks to enhance anti-tumor immunity and improve patient outcomes.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective treatment options for breast cancer patients, particularly those with triple-negative breast cancer.
How similar studies have gone: Other research has shown promising results in enhancing immune responses through similar approaches, indicating potential for success in this novel application.
Where this research is happening
-
Emory University
Atlanta, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Yu, David Sung-Wen — Emory University
- Study coordinator: Yu, David Sung-Wen
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.