Understanding how low oxygen levels affect T cell behavior in cancer

Dissecting the role of hypoxia in T cell differentiation in cancer

['FUNDING_R01'] · UNIVERSITY OF PITTSBURGH AT PITTSBURGH · NIH-10999469

This study is looking at how low oxygen levels in tumors affect the way immune cells called T cells work in cancer patients, especially those with solid tumors like melanoma, to find better ways to help these cells fight cancer and improve immunotherapy treatments.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R01']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorUNIVERSITY OF PITTSBURGH AT PITTSBURGH (nih funded)
Locations1 site (PITTSBURGH, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-10999469 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research investigates the impact of low oxygen levels in the tumor microenvironment on T cell differentiation and function in cancer patients. It focuses on how these conditions contribute to T cell exhaustion, a state where T cells lose their ability to effectively fight cancer. By examining the metabolic stress caused by hypoxia, the study aims to uncover mechanisms that lead to resistance against immunotherapy treatments, particularly in patients with solid tumors like melanoma. The findings could help identify new strategies to enhance the effectiveness of cancer immunotherapies.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are patients with solid tumors, particularly melanoma, who are undergoing or considering immunotherapy treatments.

Not a fit: Patients with non-solid tumors or those not receiving immunotherapy may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved immunotherapy treatments for cancer patients, enhancing their ability to respond to therapies.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the role of the tumor microenvironment in T cell function, indicating that this approach has potential for success.

Where this research is happening

PITTSBURGH, 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: adult onset diabetes, Adult-Onset Diabetes Mellitus

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.