Using targeted therapies to improve treatment outcomes for malignant pleural mesothelioma

Targeting the Mitochondria to Overcome Resistance to Immune Checkpoint Inhibition in Malignant Pleural Mesothelioma

NIH-funded research Baylor College of Medicine · NIH-11053605

This study is looking at new ways to treat malignant pleural mesothelioma, a type of cancer caused by asbestos, by using special medicines that help your immune system fight the cancer better, and it’s for patients who don’t have many treatment choices right now.

Quick facts

Grant typeR37 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionBaylor College of Medicine NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Houston, United States)
Project IDNIH-11053605 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates new treatment strategies for malignant pleural mesothelioma (MPM), a cancer linked to asbestos exposure. The approach focuses on enhancing the effectiveness of immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) by targeting mitochondrial functions in cancer cells. Patients will receive either ICIs or chemotherapy combined with ICIs, followed by surgical removal of the tumor. The goal is to improve survival rates and treatment responses in patients who currently have limited options.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are patients diagnosed with malignant pleural mesothelioma who are considering treatment options involving immune checkpoint inhibitors.

Not a fit: Patients with advanced-stage mesothelioma who are not candidates for surgery or those with other severe comorbidities may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could significantly improve survival rates and quality of life for patients with malignant pleural mesothelioma.

How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown promising results with immune checkpoint inhibitors in treating malignant pleural mesothelioma, indicating potential for success with this novel approach.

Where this research is happening

Houston, 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.