Jinming Gao

Jinming Gao is a Professor at UT Southwestern Medical Center, leading research at the intersection of nanotechnology and cancer. His work focuses on developing novel nanosensors and therapies, including proton transistor nanoparticles (e.g., Pegsitacianine) for tumor acidosis detection and synthetic polymers activating the STING pathway for immunotherapy. The Gao Group’s 'shock-and-lock' nanoparticle STING agonist entered first-in-human trials in late 2023. Key achievements include FDA Breakthrough Therapy Designation for Pegsitacianine and advancements in tumor acidosis biology and immune-engineering strategies.

Research interests emphasize tumor immunology, nanomedicine design, and metabolic reprogramming in cancer. Publications span Nature Biomedical Engineering, Science Immunology, and other top journals, highlighting innovations in nanoparticle design, STING pathway activation, and tumor microenvironment analysis. Awards include FDA recognition for clinical translational potential.

The Gao Lab actively investigates immune suppression mechanisms tied to tumor acidosis and develops strategies to enhance antitumor immunity. Collaborations focus on translating nanotechnology into clinical tools for diagnosis and therapy, with a lab website detailing ongoing projects and preclinical trials.