Understanding how exhausted CD8 T cells respond to cancer treatment

Role of progenitor exhausted CD8 T cells and the progenitor niche in anti-PD1 efficacy

['FUNDING_R01'] · UNIVERSITY OF PENNSYLVANIA · NIH-10909191

This study is looking at how tired immune cells called CD8 T cells respond to a cancer treatment called anti-PD-1, to understand why some patients feel better but don't fully recover, with the hope of finding ways to make treatments work better for everyone.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R01']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorUNIVERSITY OF PENNSYLVANIA (nih funded)
Locations1 site (PHILADELPHIA, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-10909191 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research investigates the behavior of exhausted CD8 T cells in response to anti-PD-1 therapy, which is a treatment used to help the immune system fight cancer. The study aims to uncover why many patients experience T cell reinvigoration but do not achieve a complete cure. By examining the different types of exhausted T cells, particularly progenitor exhausted T cells, the research seeks to identify the mechanisms that influence their effectiveness in combating tumors. Patients may benefit from insights that could lead to improved treatment strategies and outcomes.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are cancer patients undergoing anti-PD-1 therapy who exhibit signs of T cell exhaustion.

Not a fit: Patients who are not receiving anti-PD-1 therapy or those with non-exhausted T cell profiles may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could enhance the effectiveness of cancer immunotherapy, leading to higher cure rates for patients.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding T cell dynamics in cancer therapy, indicating that this approach builds on established findings.

Where this research is happening

PHILADELPHIA, 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 →

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.