How Zbtb42 helps CD8 T cells stay active against cancer
Regulation of CD8+T cells by Zbtb42
This research tests whether the protein Zbtb42 and its chemical tags keep CD8+ T cells strong so they can fight tumors better.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Ut Southwestern Medical Center NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Dallas, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11179328 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
The team is trying to understand why CD8+ T cells inside tumors become 'exhausted' and stop attacking cancer, focusing on a protein called Zbtb42 and how it is modified by cellular tags. They will use genetically engineered mice that lack Zbtb42 or carry a modified T‑bet protein, and apply gene‑editing to block the ubiquitin ligase Trim37, to see how these changes affect T cell function. Experiments will look at tumor‑infiltrating lymphocytes and whether preventing Zbtb42 breakdown or promoting its interaction with T‑bet preserves anti‑tumor activity. Findings could point to new ways to boost CAR‑T, TIL, or other T cell–based immunotherapies.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Patients with cancers treated by T cell–based approaches, such as those receiving CAR‑T or tumor‑infiltrating lymphocyte therapies, would be the most directly relevant group.
Not a fit: People without cancer or whose disease does not involve CD8+ T cell dysfunction are unlikely to benefit directly from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could lead to therapies that revive exhausted CD8+ T cells and make cancer immunotherapies like CAR‑T or TIL treatments more effective.
How similar studies have performed: Preclinical studies manipulating T‑bet and ubiquitination pathways have shown promise in restoring T cell function, but clinical translation remains limited.
Where this research is happening
Dallas, United States
- Ut Southwestern Medical Center — Dallas, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Poojary, Venuprasad K — Ut Southwestern Medical Center
- Study coordinator: Poojary, Venuprasad K
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.