Understanding how TCR-T cells interact with tumor environments to improve cancer treatment
Official title: Mechanoimmunological interactions between TCR-T cells and tumor fibrotic microenvironment
Funded at State University of New York at Buffalo · NIH-11082404 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how special immune cells called TCR-T cells work in tough tumor environments that can make cancer treatments less effective, with the hope of finding ways to help these cells fight solid tumors better for people with cancer.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | State University of New York at Buffalo NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Amherst, United States) |
| Project start | May 9, 2023 |
| Project end | April 30, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $603,501 |
| NIH project number | 5R01CA273929-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-11082404 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are patients with solid tumors who may benefit from advanced immunotherapy techniques.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with hematological cancers or those not eligible for TCR-T cell therapies may not receive benefits from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the interactions between engineered T cells and the fibrotic microenvironment of tumors, which can hinder the effectiveness of cancer therapies. The focus is on T Cell Receptor (TCR) Therapy, which shows promise for treating solid tumors, unlike the more established CAR T Cell Therapy. By studying how these TCR-T cells interact with the tumor's fibrotic stroma, the research aims to identify strategies that can enhance their therapeutic efficacy. The ultimate goal is to develop methods that reduce tumor-associated fibrosis, thereby improving the ability of TCR-T cells to combat cancer.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective treatments for patients with solid tumors, improving their chances of recovery.
How similar studies have gone: While CAR-T therapies have shown success in treating blood cancers, the approach for TCR-T cell therapies in solid tumors is still being explored and represents a novel area of investigation.
Where this research is happening
-
State University of New York at Buffalo
Amherst, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Zhao, Ruogang — State University of New York at Buffalo
- Study coordinator: Zhao, Ruogang
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.