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Reprogramming tumor-associated macrophages with theranostic nanoparticles

Award Number: R21CA307422
ORGANIZATION: NATIONAL CANCER INSTITUTE
OPDIV: NIH
AWARD CLASS: DISCRETIONARY
AWARD ACTIVITY TYPE: SCIENTIFIC/HEALTH RESEARCH (INCLUDES SURVEYS)
PERIOD OF PERFORMANCE START DATE: 07/03/2026
PERIOD OF PERFORMANCE END DATE: 06/30/2028

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Reprogramming tumor-associated macrophages with theranostic nanoparticles - Project Summary There is increasing evidence that tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs) in the tumor microenvironment (TME) play a large role in cancer treatment resistance, metastasis, and invasion by releasing cytokines that activate signaling pathways and engaging with other immune cells. Our preliminary results demonstrate that nanoparticles, combined with radiation therapy, can reprogram pro-tumor TAMs into an anti-tumor phenotype through activating cyclic GMP-AMP synthase (cGAS) inflammatory pathways. We will develop and test a novel approach to leverage this activation in cancer models to effect robust local and distant tumor control. The deliverable of this project will be an effective method for stimulating the body’s immune system to treat cancer. For this project, the U.S. research team will collaborate with scientists in France who are the world experts in these nanoparticles and will be donating their time to this effort. This relationship leverages complementary scientific expertise, accelerating the pace of discovery beyond what either team could achieve independently, maximizing the return on U.S. federal investment. Findings generated through this project will strengthen the position of the United States as a global leader in biomedical innovation. Animal models are essential for studying macrophage reprogramming in vivo, as they allow us to evaluate the complex interplay between immune cells, surrounding tissues, and systemic physiological responses that cannot be replicated in cell culture alone. The use of animals in this research adheres to the 3Rs framework — Replacement, Reduction, and Refinement — ensuring that their use is scientifically justified, minimized to the smallest number necessary, and conducted with the highest standards of humane care.


Issue Date FY	Funding FY	Legal Entity Name	Legal Entity Address	Legal Entity City	Legal Entity State	Legal Entity Zip Code	Legal Entity COUNTY	Legal Entity COUNTRY	Assistance Listing	Award Code	Budget Year	Action Date	Action Type	Action Amount

Issue Date FY: 2026 ( Subtotal = $454,109 )
2026	2026	DANA-FARBER CANCER INSTITUTE, INC.	450 BROOKLINE AVE	BOSTON	MA	02215	SUFFOLK	USA	Cancer Treatment Research	000	1	7/6/2026	NEW	$454,109
														Subtotal = $454,109

Grand Total All Awards = $454,109

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Reprogramming tumor-associated macrophages with theranostic nanoparticles

Award Number: R21CA307422

ORGANIZATION: NATIONAL CANCER INSTITUTE

OPDIV: NIH

AWARD CLASS: DISCRETIONARY

AWARD ACTIVITY TYPE: SCIENTIFIC/HEALTH RESEARCH (INCLUDES SURVEYS)

PERIOD OF PERFORMANCE START DATE: 07/03/2026

PERIOD OF PERFORMANCE END DATE: 06/30/2028

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