Creating new proteins to enhance T-cell therapies for cancer and other diseases
Official title: Engineering Protein Modulators of Notch Activation for T-cell immunotherapy
Funded at University of Minnesota · NIH-10896918 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is working on new ways to boost a process that helps turn stem cells into T-cells, which are important for fighting diseases like cancer and autoimmune disorders, so that patients can have better and easier access to T-cell therapies.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Minnesota NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Minneapolis, United States) |
| Project start | August 1, 2023 |
| Project end | July 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $365,513 |
| NIH project number | 5R33CA272331-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10896918 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with cancer, autoimmune disorders, or those requiring T-cell therapies.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with conditions unrelated to T-cell therapies or those who do not require immunotherapy may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on developing innovative protein activators that enhance the Notch signaling pathway, which is crucial for T-cell differentiation from stem cells. By engineering these proteins, the research aims to simplify and improve the process of creating T-cell therapies for various conditions, including cancer and autoimmune diseases. The approach involves using specialized nanobodies to activate Notch receptors without the need for complex co-culture systems, making the therapy development more efficient. Patients may benefit from more effective and accessible T-cell therapies as a result of this work.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective T-cell therapies for cancer and other serious diseases.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in enhancing T-cell therapies through innovative engineering approaches, indicating potential for success in this novel method.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Minnesota
Minneapolis, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Muretta, Joseph M. — University of Minnesota
- Study coordinator: Muretta, Joseph M.
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About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.