Why some prostate cancers respond to B7‑H3 targeted therapy
Dissecting mechanisms of sensitivity to B7-H3 (CD276)-targeted therapeutics in prostate cancer (PC)
Looking at whether androgen receptor activity explains why B7‑H3 therapies help men with advanced, treatment‑resistant prostate cancer.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R37 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Minnesota NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Minneapolis, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11294317 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This project looks at tumor samples and lab models to understand how the androgen receptor and its partners control B7‑H3, a protein found on prostate cancer cells. Researchers will use single‑cell RNA sequencing to find which cells and gene programs are linked to response to B7‑H3 targeted treatments. They will also test how commonly used androgen‑blocking drugs change tumor sensitivity to B7‑H3 therapies. The work combines patient tumor samples, computational analyses, and laboratory experiments to find markers that predict benefit and ways to overcome resistance.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Men with metastatic prostate cancer that has become resistant to androgen receptor‑targeting therapies, especially those eligible for B7‑H3–targeted treatment or willing to provide tumor samples, are the most relevant candidates.
Not a fit: People with early‑stage prostate cancer or tumors that do not express B7‑H3 are unlikely to see a direct benefit from this project.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: Could help predict which patients will benefit from B7‑H3 therapies and suggest combination approaches to overcome treatment resistance.
How similar studies have performed: A recent phase II trial reported improved outcomes in about 66% of patients treated with B7‑H3 agents, but the biological reasons for that benefit remain unclear.
Where this research is happening
Minneapolis, United States
- University of Minnesota — Minneapolis, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Hwang, Justin H. — University of Minnesota
- Study coordinator: Hwang, Justin H.
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 below.