How tiny physical pulls change T cells' ability to spot infections and cancer
Mechanisms and manipulation of force dependent behavior in T cell biology
['FUNDING_R01'] · UNIVERSITY OF NOTRE DAME · NIH-11283947
This work looks at whether small mechanical forces on T cell receptors change how well T cells recognize infected or cancerous cells.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R01'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | UNIVERSITY OF NOTRE DAME (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (NOTRE DAME, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11283947 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
The research team uses lab experiments to measure and change the tiny forces at the contact between T cells and the cells they inspect. They combine engineered receptors, cell samples, and biophysical tools to see when forces make bonds stronger (catch bonds) or weaker. The group will manipulate those force-dependent bonds to learn how they alter T cell signaling and sensitivity. Findings come from detailed molecular and cellular studies in the lab rather than from an open patient treatment program.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: People willing to donate blood or tumor tissue for laboratory studies—especially those with viral infections or cancer—would be the most relevant participants.
Not a fit: Patients seeking an immediate new treatment are unlikely to benefit directly because this is basic laboratory research focused on mechanisms.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this could inform better T cell–based therapies or vaccines that more reliably detect infections and tumors.
How similar studies have performed: Prior laboratory work, including recent publications by the PI, has shown it is possible to alter TCR mechanics, but translating this into clinical treatments is still early and experimental.
Where this research is happening
NOTRE DAME, UNITED STATES
- UNIVERSITY OF NOTRE DAME — NOTRE DAME, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: BAKER, BRIAN M — UNIVERSITY OF NOTRE DAME
- Study coordinator: BAKER, BRIAN M
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.