Helping killer (CD8) T cells spot infected cells when viruses block TAP
Mobilizing TAP-independent CD8 T cells through non-canonical cross-presentation
This project develops ways to help CD8 'killer' T cells recognize virus‑infected cells even when viruses block a key peptide transporter called TAP, aiming to benefit people with certain viral infections.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Weill Medical Coll of Cornell Univ NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (New York, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11247532 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
Researchers will study how antigen‑presenting cells, especially dendritic cells, can load and display viral fragments to CD8 T cells without the TAP transporter. They will use laboratory cell systems and animal models to trace alternative 'TAP‑independent' pathways and identify the molecules involved. The team will test whether boosting these alternative pathways improves CD8 T cell priming and recognition of infected tissues. Results may point toward new vaccine or immunotherapy approaches for viruses that evade immune detection by blocking TAP.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: People with or at risk for persistent infections by viruses known to block TAP (for example some herpesviruses) or those interested in future immunotherapy trials would be most relevant.
Not a fit: Patients with non‑viral illnesses or those with severe defects in CD8 T cell production are less likely to receive direct benefit from this work.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could lead to vaccines or immunotherapies that better activate killer T cells against viruses that hide by blocking TAP.
How similar studies have performed: Prior basic research has shown TAP‑independent antigen presentation can occur, but translating that into therapies or vaccines is still relatively new.
Where this research is happening
New York, United States
- Weill Medical Coll of Cornell Univ — New York, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Blander, Julie Magarian — Weill Medical Coll of Cornell Univ
- Study coordinator: Blander, Julie Magarian
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 below.