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Research | Immunomodulation​


Radiation therapy has complex interactions with our immune system, ranging from immune suppressive effects such killing white blood cells, to immune stimulatory effects such as helping to inducing a systemic anti-tumor immune response, that can even work against tumors that were not treated with radiation. This is an area of immense research interest, how to harness the immune-stimulating powers of radiation, to help cure cancer.

Immunomodulation Table of Contents


Preclinical Work

At the University of Washington, we have a radiation biology lab that is engaged in multiple projects related to radiation’s effect on the immune system. We have a Small Animal Radiation Research Platform (SARRP) with x-ray based radiation and volumetric imaging guidance, a Precision Proton Radiotherapy Platform, and neutron radiation for preclinical research.

Images of Small Animal Radiation Research Platform (SARRP)
Small Animal Radiation Research Platform (SARRP)

Image of Precision Proton Radiotherapy Platform (PPRP)
Precision Proton Radiotherapy Platform (PPRP)

Graphic depicting the Cyclotron Beam Layout
Neutron radiation

Clinical Trials

There are many ongoing clinical trials at University of Washington/Fred Hutch Cancer Center, some involving radiation therapy. Please see link to list of clinical trials on the Fred Hutch Cancer Center website.