Improving immune responses against cancer by targeting T cell aging and dysfunction
Targeting T Cell Senescence and Dysfunction for Anti-tumor Immunity
This study is looking at how certain immune cells can make other immune cells less effective and age faster, which makes it harder for them to fight cancer, and it aims to find new ways to boost cancer treatments by fixing this problem.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Washington University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Saint Louis, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10926820 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates how certain immune cells, specifically regulatory T cells, can cause other immune cells called effector T cells to become dysfunctional and age prematurely, which hampers their ability to fight cancer. By understanding the mechanisms behind this process, the research aims to develop new strategies to enhance the effectiveness of immunotherapy for cancer patients. The approach includes studying specific cellular pathways and signals that contribute to T cell senescence, with the goal of finding ways to reverse this dysfunction and improve anti-tumor immunity.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are cancer patients who have not responded well to existing immunotherapy treatments.
Not a fit: Patients with non-malignant conditions or those whose cancers are not influenced by T cell dysfunction may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective cancer treatments by enhancing the immune system's ability to target and eliminate tumors.
How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promise in targeting immune cell dysfunction in cancer, suggesting that this approach could lead to significant advancements in treatment.
Where this research is happening
Saint Louis, United States
- Washington University — Saint Louis, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Peng, Guangyong — Washington University
- Study coordinator: Peng, Guangyong
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.