Investigating how the Crk protein affects immune cell responses

The adaptor protein Crk in immune responses

NIH-funded research Rutgers Biomedical and Health Sciences · NIH-11045665

This study is looking at how a protein called Crk helps control the activity of important immune cells, like NK cells and T cells, to better understand how we can boost the immune response in people with certain cancers, especially triple negative breast cancer.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionRutgers Biomedical and Health Sciences NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Newark, UNITED STATES)
Project IDNIH-11045665 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on understanding the role of the Crk adaptor protein in regulating the activation and inhibition of natural killer (NK) cells and T cells, which are crucial components of the immune system. By utilizing advanced imaging techniques and human primary cell assays, the study aims to uncover how Crk influences immune responses, particularly in the context of cancer. The researchers will also explore new small molecule inhibitors that could potentially enhance immune function in patients with certain cancers, such as triple negative breast cancer.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include patients with immune deficiencies or those diagnosed with triple negative breast cancer.

Not a fit: Patients with conditions unrelated to immune response or those not affected by the specific cancers being studied may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapies that enhance immune responses in cancer patients, improving treatment outcomes.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in targeting immune regulatory proteins, suggesting potential for success in this novel approach.

Where this research is happening

Newark, 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 22q11 Chromosomal Microdeletion Syndrome22q11 Deletion Syndrome22q11.2 deletion syndrome
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.