Understanding how T cell receptors respond to mechanical forces
Mechanobiology of [alpha][beta]TCRs
['FUNDING_P01'] · DANA-FARBER CANCER INST · NIH-10877945
This study is exploring how certain immune cells, called T cells, react to physical forces when they interact with germs, like the flu, to better understand how they grow and remember infections, which could help improve treatments for illnesses.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_P01'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | DANA-FARBER CANCER INST (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (BOSTON, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-10877945 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
This research investigates the function of alpha-beta T cell receptors (TCRs) by examining how they respond to mechanical forces when interacting with specific ligands. Using advanced techniques like optical tweezers, the study looks at both single molecule and single cell behaviors to understand how TCR activation affects T cell expansion and memory formation. The research also includes in vivo experiments to see how these TCRs perform in live organisms, particularly in response to infections like influenza A. By linking molecular mechanisms with biological outcomes, the study aims to provide insights into T cell responses in the immune system.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with conditions that affect T cell function or those who may benefit from enhanced immune responses, such as patients with autoimmune diseases or those undergoing cancer treatment.
Not a fit: Patients with stable, non-immune related conditions or those not requiring T cell modulation may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could enhance our understanding of T cell activation and improve strategies for immunotherapy and vaccine development.
How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promising results in understanding T cell responses, but this specific mechanobiological approach is relatively novel.
Where this research is happening
BOSTON, UNITED STATES
- DANA-FARBER CANCER INST — BOSTON, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: LANG, MATTHEW J. — DANA-FARBER CANCER INST
- Study coordinator: LANG, MATTHEW J.
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.