How T cells remember past infections and cancer
Mucosal T cell memory to pathogens
This project explores how our immune cells, called T cells, can remember and fight off infections and cancer more effectively, aiming to improve future treatments.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R37 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Minnesota NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Minneapolis, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11086166 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
Our immune system's T cells are crucial for fighting infections and cancer, but they can get 'tired' or stop working well after prolonged battles. This project looks into how we can make these T cells stronger and more durable, so they can keep fighting effectively over time. We are learning the secrets behind T cells that can expand indefinitely without getting exhausted, which could lead to better vaccines and immune-based treatments. By understanding these mechanisms, we hope to develop new ways to boost your body's natural defenses against disease.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Patients with chronic infections or cancer could potentially benefit from future therapies developed from this fundamental understanding of T cell immunity.
Not a fit: Patients not affected by chronic infections or cancer may not directly benefit from this specific line of research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could lead to more effective vaccines and immune therapies for chronic infections and various types of cancer.
How similar studies have performed: While preliminary data shows promising results in avoiding T cell exhaustion, the underlying mechanisms are still being uncovered in this fundamental research.
Where this research is happening
Minneapolis, United States
- University of Minnesota — Minneapolis, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Masopust, David — University of Minnesota
- Study coordinator: Masopust, David
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.