Understanding how IL-27 helps T cells fight chronic infections and cancer.

The role of IL-27 in sustaining the exhausted CD8 T cell response to persistent infection and cancer.

NIH-funded research Scripps Research Institute, the · NIH-10873990

This study is looking at how a protein called IL-27 can help boost the immune system's CD8 T cells, which are important for battling long-lasting infections and cancer, to see if it can keep them active and effective for longer.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionScripps Research Institute, the NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (La Jolla, United States)
Project IDNIH-10873990 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the role of IL-27 in enhancing the immune response of CD8 T cells, which are crucial for fighting chronic infections and cancer. The study focuses on how IL-27 signaling can help sustain the activity of these T cells, particularly those that have become exhausted due to persistent infections or tumors. By exploring the mechanisms that allow these T cells to proliferate and resist programmed cell death, the research aims to identify new therapeutic strategies that could improve patient outcomes in cancer and chronic viral infections.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are patients suffering from chronic viral infections or various types of cancer who have exhausted T cell responses.

Not a fit: Patients with acute infections or those whose cancers are not influenced by T cell responses may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that enhance the immune response in patients with chronic infections and cancer.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in enhancing T cell responses through similar immune modulation strategies, indicating potential for success in this approach.

Where this research is happening

La Jolla, 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.
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 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.