Understanding how immune cells in the gut respond to cancer treatments
Molecular Pathways Regulating Tissue-resident Memory T cells in the Gut
This study is looking at how special immune cells in the gut respond to cancer treatments that can sometimes cause inflammation, like colitis, to help find better ways to boost the immune system while reducing side effects for cancer patients.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Massachusetts General Hospital NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Boston, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11017722 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of tissue-resident memory T cells in the gut and how they interact with cancer therapies that target immune checkpoints, such as CTLA-4 and PD-1. By analyzing immune responses in patients experiencing colitis as a side effect of these treatments, the study aims to uncover the mechanisms behind T cell activation and regulation. The researchers will utilize advanced techniques, including single-cell analysis and T cell receptor sequencing, to explore the origins and functions of these immune cells in both healthy individuals and those with inflammatory responses. This work could lead to improved strategies for enhancing immune responses while minimizing adverse effects in cancer patients.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include cancer patients undergoing treatment with immune checkpoint inhibitors who may experience inflammatory side effects.
Not a fit: Patients not undergoing cancer treatment or those without immune-related side effects may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to better cancer treatments that enhance immune responses without causing severe side effects like colitis.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding immune responses in cancer therapy, making this approach both relevant and potentially impactful.
Where this research is happening
Boston, United States
- Massachusetts General Hospital — Boston, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Dougan, Michael Lawrence — Massachusetts General Hospital
- Study coordinator: Dougan, Michael Lawrence
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 below.