Investigating how stress affects immune cells in cancer progression

Understanding the role of β2AR-signaling on ILC2 differentiation/plasticity and its implications in cancer progression

NIH-funded research Roswell Park Cancer Institute Corp · NIH-10906024

This study is looking at how chronic stress affects certain immune cells in cancer patients, specifically how stress hormones might change the way these cells work and impact cancer growth and treatment.

Quick facts

Grant typeFellowship grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionRoswell Park Cancer Institute Corp NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Buffalo, United States)
Project IDNIH-10906024 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research explores the impact of chronic stress on immune cells, specifically type II innate lymphoid cells (ILC2s), in the context of cancer. It focuses on how norepinephrine, released during stress, activates the β2-adrenergic receptor (β2AR) on these immune cells, potentially leading to an immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment. By examining the mechanisms of ILC2 differentiation and function, the study aims to uncover how stress influences cancer progression and treatment outcomes. The research employs preclinical models to analyze the relationship between β2AR signaling and tumor response.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are cancer patients who are experiencing high levels of stress and may benefit from improved immune responses.

Not a fit: Patients who are not currently undergoing cancer treatment or do not have elevated stress levels may not receive benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for enhancing anti-tumor immune responses in cancer patients experiencing chronic stress.

How similar studies have performed: While the specific approach of this research is novel, previous studies have indicated that stress can negatively impact immune function in cancer, suggesting a potential for significant findings.

Where this research is happening

Buffalo, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Conditions Breast Cancer ModelCancer BiologyCancer PatientCancer Prognosis
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.