Investigating how RNA binding proteins influence T cell responses in cancer treatment
Official title: How RNA binding proteins control effector T cell responses
Funded at University of Connecticut Sch of Med/dnt · NIH-11052482 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain proteins that bind to RNA can help improve T cell responses in cancer treatment, with the hope of finding better ways to make these immune cells more effective at fighting tumors, which could lead to improved therapies for patients.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Connecticut Sch of Med/dnt NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Farmington, United States) |
| Project start | April 1, 2024 |
| Project end | March 31, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $482,697 |
| NIH project number | 5R01CA282775-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11052482 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are patients with cancer who may benefit from enhanced T cell therapies.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with non-cancerous conditions or those not eligible for T cell therapies may not receive benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research explores the role of RNA binding proteins in regulating T cell responses, particularly in the context of cancer immunotherapy. By examining how these proteins affect the splicing of RNA, the study aims to uncover new mechanisms that enhance the effectiveness of T cells in targeting tumors. The approach involves analyzing the molecular pathways that govern T cell activation and function, focusing on the spliceosome pathway and its impact on T cell behavior. Patients may benefit from insights that could lead to improved adoptive T cell therapies for cancer.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective cancer immunotherapies by enhancing T cell responses against tumors.
How similar studies have gone: Other research has shown promising results in enhancing T cell responses through similar mechanisms, indicating potential for success in this area.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Connecticut Sch of Med/dnt
Farmington, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Vella, Anthony T — University of Connecticut Sch of Med/dnt
- Study coordinator: Vella, Anthony T
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.