Award
National Cancer Institute 5K08CA270401-03
The role of stem-like CD8 T-cells in the abscopal response
Recipient
Emory University
Award Amount
$242,465.00
Ceiling
$242,465.00
Awarded
August 25, 2025
Identifier
5K08CA270401-03
This award funds research to understand how stem-like CD8+ T cells contribute to the abscopal effect in melanoma treatment, aiming to improve immunotherapy outcomes and potentially change clinical practices regarding lymph node treatment.
Description
The project explores the impact of radiation therapy combined with immune checkpoint blockade on CD8+ T-cell subsets in melanoma. It hypothesizes that stem-like CD8+ T cells in the tumor-draining lymph node mediate the abscopal effect. The study aims to determine the role of these cells, the importance of dendritic cell stimulation, and the effect of neoadjuvant therapy. Potential to redefine surgical and radiation approaches in melanoma treatment.