Understanding how a lipid transporter affects immune response and cancer spread
Official title: Structural dynamics of sphingosine-1-phosphate transporters as key therapeutic targets for immune system modulation and cancer
Funded at Saint Louis University · NIH-10930801 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a specific protein helps move a substance called S1P in and out of cells, which could lead to new treatments for cancer and ways to improve the immune system, making it easier for patients to fight off diseases.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Saint Louis University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Saint Louis, United States) |
| Project start | September 20, 2023 |
| Project end | July 31, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $395,216 |
| NIH project number | 5R01GM145783-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10930801 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are patients with cancers that may benefit from enhanced immunotherapy strategies.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with non-cancerous conditions or those not undergoing immunotherapy may not receive benefits from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of sphingosine-1-phosphate (S1P) transporters, particularly Spns2, in regulating cell growth, survival, and migration. By studying how S1P is transported across cell membranes, the research aims to uncover mechanisms that could lead to new therapies for cancer and immune system modulation. The approach includes detailed structural analysis and functional studies to understand how Spns2 can be targeted to enhance immunotherapy effectiveness and reduce cancer metastasis.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that improve cancer immunotherapy and reduce the spread of tumors.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in targeting similar lipid transport mechanisms for therapeutic purposes, indicating potential for success in this area.
Where this research is happening
-
Saint Louis University
Saint Louis, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Dastvan, Reza — Saint Louis University
- Study coordinator: Dastvan, Reza
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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.