Understanding how the immune system recognizes self and foreign cells
Official title: THE IMMUNE SELF-ASSOCIATED STORAGE ORGANELLE (SASO)
Funded at University of California, San Francisco · NIH-10999425 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how our immune system tells the difference between our own healthy cells and harmful ones, like cancer cells, by exploring a new part of immune cells called the Self-Associated Storage Organelle (SASO), which could help improve cancer treatments and reduce unwanted immune reactions.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of California, San Francisco NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (San Francisco, United States) |
| Project start | January 20, 2023 |
| Project end | December 31, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $581,068 |
| NIH project number | 5R01AI175277-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-10999425 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include individuals with cancer or autoimmune conditions who may benefit from enhanced immune responses.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with conditions unrelated to immune function or those who are not currently experiencing cancer or autoimmune diseases may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the mechanisms by which the immune system distinguishes between the body's own cells and foreign invaders, including cancer cells. It focuses on a newly identified organelle called the Self-Associated Storage Organelle (SASO) found in certain immune cells, which is believed to play a crucial role in maintaining this self-recognition. The study employs advanced imaging and analytical techniques alongside traditional methods to explore how SASO functions and how it can be leveraged to enhance anti-tumor immunity and reduce autoimmune responses.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to innovative therapies that improve the immune system's ability to fight cancer while minimizing harmful autoimmune reactions.
How similar studies have gone: Other research has shown promise in understanding immune mechanisms, but the specific focus on the SASO is a novel approach that has not been extensively tested.
Where this research is happening
-
University of California, San Francisco
San Francisco, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Krummel, Matthew F — University of California, San Francisco
- Study coordinator: Krummel, Matthew F
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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.