Understanding how T cells are activated to improve treatments for diseases
Official title: Evolution-guided analysis of extracellular and intracellular mechanisms driving T cell activation
Funded at University of Arizona · NIH-11116988 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how T cells, which are important for fighting off infections and diseases, get activated and respond to threats, with the goal of improving treatments like CAR T cell therapy for better health outcomes.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Arizona NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Tucson, United States) |
| Project start | June 14, 2024 |
| Project end | April 30, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $676,106 |
| NIH project number | 5R01AI179713-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11116988 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for participation or benefit from this research would include individuals with conditions that could be treated by enhancing T cell responses, such as certain cancers or autoimmune diseases.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with conditions unrelated to T cell activation or those who do not have a functioning immune system may not receive benefits from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the mechanisms that drive T cell activation, focusing on both the external and internal processes that influence how these immune cells respond to antigens. By exploring the role of synthetic receptors and their integration with T cell signaling, the research aims to enhance our understanding of T cell behavior. This could lead to innovative therapies, such as CAR T cell therapy, that can be tailored to treat various diseases more effectively. The study will utilize advanced techniques to analyze the interactions between T cell receptors and their co-receptors.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective immunotherapies for a range of diseases, including cancers and autoimmune disorders.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in enhancing T cell activation through similar approaches, indicating a potential for success in this area.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Arizona
Tucson, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Kuhns, Michael S — University of Arizona
- Study coordinator: Kuhns, Michael S
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.