Understanding how temporary stress in cells can enhance immune responses against tumors
Dissecting the Mechanism for Transient ER Stress-Induced Anti-Tumor T Cell Response
This study is looking at how a little bit of stress in certain immune cells called T cells can help them fight cancer better, using a gas called carbon monoxide to boost their energy, which could lead to improved treatments for patients with cancer.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Medical University of South Carolina NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Charleston, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11049265 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates how temporary stress in the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) of T cells can improve their ability to fight tumors. By using a gas called carbon monoxide, the study aims to create moderate ER stress that enhances mitochondrial function in T cells, leading to better anti-tumor responses. The researchers will analyze how this process affects T cell metabolism and their overall effectiveness in targeting cancer cells. Patients may benefit from insights that could lead to more effective immunotherapies for cancer treatment.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are patients with cancers that could benefit from enhanced T cell responses, such as melanoma.
Not a fit: Patients with non-cancerous conditions or those whose tumors do not respond to T cell therapies may not receive benefits from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved immunotherapy strategies that enhance the body's ability to fight cancer.
How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promising results in enhancing T cell functions through various stress mechanisms, suggesting potential for success in this novel approach.
Where this research is happening
Charleston, United States
- Medical University of South Carolina — Charleston, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Mehrotra, Shikhar — Medical University of South Carolina
- Study coordinator: Mehrotra, Shikhar
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.