Exploring how changes in fat metabolism affect immune cell function in tumors
Official title: Understanding the role of altered lipid metabolism in CD8 T cell exhaustion within the tumor microenvironment
Funded at University of Pittsburgh at Pittsburgh · NIH-10996852 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how changes in fat processing in the body affect a type of immune cell called CD8 T cells, which are important for fighting cancer, especially for patients who aren't responding well to immunotherapy treatments. By understanding these changes, the researchers hope to find new ways to help these immune cells work better against tumors, which could lead to better treatment results for patients.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Fellowship grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Pittsburgh at Pittsburgh NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Pittsburgh, United States) |
| Project start | July 1, 2024 |
| Project end | June 30, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $48,974 |
| NIH project number | 1F31CA288000-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-10996852 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are patients undergoing immunotherapy for cancer who may be experiencing limited responses to treatment.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with cancers that do not involve CD8 T cell responses or those not receiving immunotherapy may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how altered lipid metabolism impacts the function of CD8 T cells within the tumor microenvironment, particularly in the context of cancer immunotherapy. The study focuses on understanding why some patients do not respond to treatments that activate the immune system, specifically looking at how chronic exposure to tumor antigens and environmental stressors can lead to CD8 T cell exhaustion. By examining the metabolic changes in these immune cells, the research aims to uncover new strategies to enhance their effectiveness against tumors. Patients may benefit from insights that could lead to improved immunotherapy outcomes.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to enhanced immunotherapy strategies that improve patient responses to cancer treatment.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding immune cell metabolism and its impact on cancer treatment, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Pittsburgh at Pittsburgh
Pittsburgh, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Spahr, Kellie — University of Pittsburgh at Pittsburgh
- Study coordinator: Spahr, Kellie
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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.