Targeting Immune Cells for Cancer Treatment
Precision Targeting of CD1-Restricted iNKT Cells for Cancer Immunotherapy
This work explores new ways to activate special immune cells called iNKT cells to fight cancer more effectively.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Albert Einstein College of Medicine NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Bronx, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11110360 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
Our bodies have natural killer T (iNKT) cells, which are a type of immune cell known to help find and destroy cancer cells. While current methods to activate these cells show promise, they can sometimes cause side effects or become less effective over time. This project aims to find precise ways to activate iNKT cells without these drawbacks, making them a more powerful tool in cancer treatment. We are working to overcome challenges in how these cells are activated to develop safer and more lasting cancer immunotherapies.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This foundational research is not directly recruiting patients but aims to develop therapies that could eventually benefit individuals with various types of cancer.
Not a fit: Patients not currently seeking or eligible for immunotherapy, or those with conditions unrelated to iNKT cell function, may not directly benefit from this specific research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could lead to new, more effective, and safer immunotherapy options for various cancers by harnessing the body's own immune system.
How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown that activating iNKT cells can induce tumor regression, but this project seeks novel approaches to overcome existing limitations in current activation methods.
Where this research is happening
Bronx, United States
- Albert Einstein College of Medicine — Bronx, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Porcelli, Steven a — Albert Einstein College of Medicine
- Study coordinator: Porcelli, Steven a
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.