Adenosine Receptor Antagonists As Immunotherapeutic Agents For Cancer
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$555,779.00
Summary
We have shown that drugs that block immunosuppressive adenosine receptors can improve anti-tumour immune responses and consequently enhance the effectiveness of chemotherapy. These drugs are already known to be well-tolerated in humans and so have great potential for clinical development. We propose to determine the therapeutic response achieved with these drugs in combination with established cancer treatments involving radiotherapy and immune based therapies.
Targeting Adenosine Mediated Immunosuppression To Enhance CAR T Cell Activity
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$633,447.00
Summary
The use of white blood cells genetically engineered to eradicate cancer cells specifically has been a major breakthrough in cancer treatment. These cells (CAR T cells) are very effective in blood cancers, but do not currently work well in other cancers. This is due to the immune suppressing nature of the cancer environment. I propose to use strategies to overcome this by genetically reprogramming the CAR T cells to be resistant to suppression by the cancer and therefore be more effective.
The Role Of CD73 In Cancer: Validating A Novel Therapeutic Target
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$540,356.00
Summary
We here propose to investigate the role of a specific immune-suppressive molecule called CD73 in cancer. We will test the therapeutic activity of blocking CD73 with a monoclonal antibody for cancer treatment, either used alone or in combination with immune-activating agents and chemotherapy.