Targeting T cell activity using advanced imaging techniques

Precision targeting of T cell cytotoxicity with PET

['FUNDING_R01'] · UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA, SAN FRANCISCO · NIH-11032013

This study is looking to make cancer treatment better by creating a new way to see how well your immune system's T cells are working in tumors, helping doctors figure out who will benefit from certain therapies and who might face side effects.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R01']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorUNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA, SAN FRANCISCO (nih funded)
Locations1 site (SAN FRANCISCO, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-11032013 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research focuses on improving cancer treatment by developing a new imaging biomarker that can measure T cell activity in tumors. It aims to distinguish between patients who respond well to immune checkpoint therapies and those who do not, which is currently difficult with standard imaging methods. The approach involves a specialized peptide that can detect granzyme B, an enzyme linked to T cell cytotoxicity, allowing for real-time monitoring of T cell responses. By identifying patients at risk for adverse effects and those likely to benefit from treatment, this research could enhance personalized cancer therapy.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are cancer patients undergoing treatment with immune checkpoint inhibitors who may benefit from enhanced monitoring of their T cell responses.

Not a fit: Patients who are not receiving immune checkpoint therapies or those with non-cancerous conditions may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective and personalized cancer treatments by accurately identifying which patients will benefit from specific therapies.

How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promise in using imaging biomarkers to assess immune responses, suggesting that this approach could be effective.

Where this research is happening

SAN FRANCISCO, 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.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Conditions: Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome Virus, Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome Virus, anti-cancer therapy

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 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.