Understanding how CD56 affects human natural killer cells

Defining the functional role of CD56 on human natural killer cells

['FUNDING_R01'] · COLUMBIA UNIVERSITY HEALTH SCIENCES · NIH-10908665

This study is looking at a protein called CD56 on immune cells that help fight viruses and cancer, to see how it works with other parts of these cells and how changes to it might improve cancer treatments.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R01']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorCOLUMBIA UNIVERSITY HEALTH SCIENCES (nih funded)
Locations1 site (NEW YORK, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-10908665 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research investigates the role of CD56, a protein found on human natural killer (NK) cells, which are essential for fighting viral infections and monitoring tumors. The study aims to explore how CD56 interacts with other components of NK cells and influences their function, particularly in the context of cancer immunotherapy. Researchers will examine how modifications to CD56 affect its behavior and how it connects to the cell's internal structure. By understanding these mechanisms, the research hopes to enhance the effectiveness of NK cell-based treatments for cancer.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with cancers that may benefit from enhanced NK cell activity.

Not a fit: Patients with conditions unrelated to NK cell function or those not diagnosed with cancer may not receive benefits from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved cancer immunotherapies that utilize natural killer cells more effectively.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding NK cell functions, but this specific focus on CD56 is relatively novel.

Where this research is happening

NEW YORK, 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: Cancers

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.