Engineering T cells to better recognize and target tumors
Official title: Antigen Density Sensors for Cell Engineering
Funded at Stanford University · NIH-11112456 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how to make special immune cells called T cells better at finding and fighting cancer cells, which could lead to more effective treatments for patients with solid tumors while protecting healthy tissues.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Stanford University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Stanford, United States) |
| Project start | June 15, 2024 |
| Project end | April 30, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $386,000 |
| NIH project number | 5R35GM155437-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11112456 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with solid tumors who may benefit from advanced T cell therapies.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with non-solid tumors or those not eligible for T cell therapies may not receive benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on enhancing the ability of engineered T cells to recognize and communicate with cancer cells. By investigating how antigen density affects T cell behavior, the project aims to improve the targeting of solid tumors while minimizing damage to healthy tissues. The approach combines mechanistic cell biology with synthetic biology, utilizing engineered multicellular systems and advanced signaling techniques to optimize T cell responses. Patients may benefit from more effective cancer therapies that leverage these engineered T cells.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more precise and effective cancer treatments that improve patient outcomes.
How similar studies have gone: Other research has shown promising results in engineering T cells for cancer treatment, indicating a strong potential for success in this area.
Where this research is happening
-
Stanford University
Stanford, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Hernandez-Lopez, Rogelio Antonio — Stanford University
- Study coordinator: Hernandez-Lopez, Rogelio Antonio
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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.