Understanding how Treg cells adapt to cancer environments

A deubiquitination module controls Treg adaptation to tumor microenvironment

NIH-funded research Northwestern University at Chicago · NIH-10991826

This study is looking at how certain immune cells called Treg cells change when they are in tumors, with the goal of finding ways to make cancer treatments work better for patients.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionNorthwestern University at Chicago NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Chicago, United States)
Project IDNIH-10991826 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates how regulatory T (Treg) cells, which can suppress the immune response against tumors, adapt to the challenging conditions of the tumor microenvironment. The study focuses on identifying specific factors in the tumor environment that influence the function of Treg cells, particularly through a deubiquitinase module that affects a key protein called FoxP3. By exploring the role of USP21 and USP22 in Treg adaptation, the research aims to enhance the effectiveness of anti-tumor immunotherapy. Patients may benefit from insights that could lead to improved cancer treatments targeting Treg cells.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are cancer patients who are undergoing or considering immunotherapy treatments.

Not a fit: Patients with non-cancerous conditions or those not receiving immunotherapy may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective cancer immunotherapies by overcoming the immune suppression caused by Treg cells.

How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promise in targeting Treg cells to enhance anti-tumor responses, indicating that this approach could be a valuable advancement in cancer treatment.

Where this research is happening

Chicago, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Conditions anti-cancer therapy
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.