Improving immune signaling molecules to help fight cancer
Shedding new light on cytokine signaling through molecular engineering
Researchers are using protein engineering to change cytokines—chemical messengers of the immune system—to help the body's immune response better target cancer.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Chicago NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Chicago, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11321636 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
Researchers will redesign cytokines (the proteins that tell immune cells what to do) in the lab to change how they bind receptors and turn genes on or off. They will use molecular and cellular experiments, including engineered proteins and cell models, to map how signaling changes immune behavior. The goal is to find ways to tune cytokine signals that could later be turned into treatments. This is laboratory-focused work led at the University of Chicago and does not describe a current patient trial.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Although not a clinical trial, the findings could make people with cancers that are treated by immune-based therapies (such as some solid tumors and blood cancers) candidates for future trials based on these discoveries.
Not a fit: People without cancer or whose disease does not involve immune mechanisms are unlikely to see direct benefit from this laboratory research in the near term.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could lead to new therapies that boost or fine‑tune immune attack on cancers while reducing unwanted side effects.
How similar studies have performed: Engineered cytokines have shown promise in laboratory studies and early clinical work, but broadly useful therapies from this approach remain experimental.
Where this research is happening
Chicago, United States
- University of Chicago — Chicago, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Mendoza, Juan Luis — University of Chicago
- Study coordinator: Mendoza, Juan Luis
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.