Understanding how human γδ T cells develop and respond in health and disease
Official title: The role of TCR, ligand, and signal strength in human γδ T cell development
Funded at Research Inst of Fox Chase Can Ctr · NIH-11395248 · Data updated 2026-11-12
A research grant is exploring how a special type of immune cell called γδ T cells learns to develop and act, with potential implications for autoimmune diseases and cancer therapies.
Quick facts
| Grant type | P01 program project |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Research Inst of Fox Chase Can Ctr NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Philadelphia, United States) |
| Project start | May 15, 2014 |
| Project end | June 30, 2030 |
| Funding year | 2026 |
| Award (this year) | $630,192 |
| NIH project number | 5P01AI102853-12 |
| Project ID | NIH-11395248 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates are individuals whose conditions involve abnormal γδ T cell activity or those who could contribute samples for human cell studies.
✕Less likely to help
Participants not directly involved in sample donation or clinical studies may not experience personal benefits.
What this research studies
This project looks at how human γδ T cells choose their fate during development and how signals from their receptors influence their final role in the immune system. Researchers will study TCR signaling strength, ligand interactions, and downstream networks using single-cell and genome-wide approaches in human cells. By collaborating across labs, they aim to map how these cells become different types that can fight disease or contribute to pathology. The work is designed to connect basic biology to ideas for new cellular therapies. Results could inform strategies to harness γδ T cells in treating autoimmune conditions and cancer.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, the work could guide the development of γδ T cell–based therapies for autoimmune diseases and cancers, improving future treatment options.
How similar studies have gone: Preliminary data suggest conserved roles for TCR signaling in γδ T cell fate in both mouse and human studies, supporting potential translational impact.
Where this research is happening
-
Research Inst of Fox Chase Can Ctr
Philadelphia, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Ciofani, Maria — Research Inst of Fox Chase Can Ctr
- Study coordinator: Ciofani, Maria
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.