Investigating why T cells fail to fight lung cancer effectively
Official title: Understanding the induction of T cell dysfunction in the context of lung cancer
Funded at Massachusetts Institute of Technology · NIH-11051905 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking into why the immune system's T cells don't work well in people with non-small cell lung cancer, especially how certain gene changes might make cancer treatments less effective, with the hope of finding ways to make these treatments work better for patients.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R37 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Massachusetts Institute of Technology NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Cambridge, United States) |
| Project start | March 14, 2023 |
| Project end | February 29, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $462,141 |
| NIH project number | 5R37CA273819-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-11051905 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are patients diagnosed with non-small cell lung cancer, particularly those with KRAS mutations or p53 loss.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with lung cancer types that do not involve KRAS mutations or p53 loss may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding the reasons behind T cell dysfunction in lung cancer, particularly in patients with non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). It examines how certain genetic mutations, like KRAS and p53, affect the immune response to cancer therapies, specifically checkpoint blockade therapy (CBT). By using a mouse model that mimics human lung cancer, the researchers aim to uncover the mechanisms that lead to resistance against these therapies, which could help improve treatment outcomes for patients. The findings may provide insights into enhancing the effectiveness of immunotherapy for lung cancer patients.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved immunotherapy strategies that enhance the effectiveness of treatments for lung cancer patients.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in understanding T cell dynamics in cancer, but this specific approach to KRAS/p53-driven lung cancer is relatively novel.
Where this research is happening
-
Massachusetts Institute of Technology
Cambridge, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Spranger, Stefani — Massachusetts Institute of Technology
- Study coordinator: Spranger, Stefani
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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.