How aging affects the immune system's ability to fight tumors
Cellular and microenvironmental mechanisms linking aging to tumor control
This study looks at how getting older affects the immune system's ability to fight tumors, especially focusing on a type of immune cell that helps destroy cancer cells, and it aims to find ways to improve cancer treatments for older adults.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Massachusetts General Hospital NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Boston, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10890796 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the relationship between aging and the immune system's effectiveness in controlling tumors. It focuses on understanding how aging impacts CD8+ T cells, which are crucial for identifying and destroying cancer cells. By using mouse models, the researchers will explore the mechanisms that alter immune cell function in the tumor environment. This study aims to uncover the reasons behind the decline in anti-tumor immunity as people age, which could lead to better cancer treatments for older adults.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals aged 65 and older who are at risk for or currently battling cancer.
Not a fit: Patients under the age of 65 or those without cancer may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved cancer therapies specifically tailored for older patients.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that understanding immune responses in aging populations can lead to significant advancements in cancer treatment, indicating that this approach has potential for success.
Where this research is happening
Boston, United States
- Massachusetts General Hospital — Boston, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Ringel, Alison Epstein — Massachusetts General Hospital
- Study coordinator: Ringel, Alison Epstein
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.