How LAG3 affects the movement of immune cells in cancer treatment
Official title: Impact of LAG3 on CD8+ T cell motility and migration in the context of cancer immunotherapy
Funded at University of Pittsburgh at Pittsburgh · NIH-11065997 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a protein called LAG3 affects the movement and activity of important immune cells called CD8+ T cells that help fight cancer, with the goal of finding better ways to boost these cells in cancer treatments 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 | March 1, 2025 |
| Project end | February 28, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $75,520 |
| NIH project number | 1F32CA298301-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-11065997 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are patients with cancer who are receiving or considering immune checkpoint inhibitor therapies.
✕Less likely to help
Patients whose cancer is not treated with immune checkpoint inhibitors or those who do not have CD8+ T cell involvement may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of LAG3, an inhibitory receptor, in the movement and activation of CD8+ T cells, which are crucial for fighting cancer. By using advanced microscopy techniques and genetic modifications, the study aims to understand how LAG3 limits T cell function and mobility in the tumor environment. The findings could lead to improved strategies for enhancing T cell responses in cancer immunotherapy, particularly for patients receiving immune checkpoint inhibitors.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective cancer treatments by improving the functionality and movement of immune cells in patients undergoing immunotherapy.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in enhancing T cell responses through similar mechanisms, indicating potential for success in this area.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Pittsburgh at Pittsburgh
Pittsburgh, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Baessler, Andrew Stephen — University of Pittsburgh at Pittsburgh
- Study coordinator: Baessler, Andrew Stephen
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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.