Developing a method to improve T cell responses against solid tumors
Official title: Engineering synthetic feedback control in T cell signaling for anti-tumor immunity
Funded at University of Washington · NIH-10978167 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is testing a new way to help special immune cells called T cells fight tough solid tumors better, so patients with these types of cancers might have more effective treatment options.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Washington NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Seattle, United States) |
| Project start | July 17, 2024 |
| Project end | June 30, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $642,044 |
| NIH project number | 1R01CA282512-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-10978167 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are patients with solid tumors who have not responded well to existing therapies.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with blood cancers may not benefit from this research as it specifically targets solid tumors.
What this research studies
This research focuses on enhancing the effectiveness of engineered T cells in fighting solid tumors, which have proven challenging compared to blood cancers. The approach involves creating a synthetic feedback control system that regulates T cell signaling, allowing these immune cells to maintain their anti-tumor functions without becoming exhausted from chronic stimulation by tumor cells. By carefully adjusting the intensity and duration of signaling, the goal is to improve T cell persistence and overall tumor control. Patients may benefit from this innovative strategy that aims to make T cell therapies more effective against solid tumors.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective treatments for patients with solid tumors, improving their chances of recovery.
How similar studies have gone: Other research has shown promise in enhancing T cell responses through similar signaling modulation techniques, indicating potential for success in this novel approach.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Washington
Seattle, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Kueh, Hao Yuan — University of Washington
- Study coordinator: Kueh, Hao Yuan
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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.