How immune cells use force to fight cancer
Mechanoregulation of cytotoxic lymphocyte function
['FUNDING_R01'] · SLOAN-KETTERING INST CAN RESEARCH · NIH-11103280
This work explores how our immune cells sense and apply force to recognize and destroy cancer cells.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R01'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | SLOAN-KETTERING INST CAN RESEARCH (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (NEW YORK, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11103280 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
Our immune cells, specifically cytotoxic lymphocytes, form special connections called immune synapses to communicate and attack harmful cells. While we know a lot about the chemical signals in these connections, we are just beginning to understand the physical forces involved. This project aims to discover how these immune cells use mechanical forces to find and eliminate cancer cells, especially those spreading in the body. We want to understand if immune cells can detect the stiffness of cancer cells and use this ability to protect us from tumors.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This foundational work does not involve direct patient participation, but future clinical applications would target patients with various cancers.
Not a fit: Patients not currently undergoing or considering immunotherapy for cancer may not directly benefit from this specific research at this stage.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could lead to new ways to boost the immune system's ability to fight cancer, potentially improving immunotherapy treatments.
How similar studies have performed: Prior work suggests that mechanical forces play a critical role in immune cell activation and killing efficiency, indicating a promising area of investigation.
Where this research is happening
NEW YORK, UNITED STATES
- SLOAN-KETTERING INST CAN RESEARCH — NEW YORK, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: HUSE, MORGAN A — SLOAN-KETTERING INST CAN RESEARCH
- Study coordinator: HUSE, MORGAN A
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.
Conditions: Cancers