Understanding IL-27 to boost immune cells against long-term infections and cancer
The role of IL-27 in sustaining the exhausted CD8 T cell response to persistent infection and cancer.
['FUNDING_R01'] · SCRIPPS RESEARCH INSTITUTE, THE · NIH-11117137
This research explores how a molecule called IL-27 can help our immune system's T cells fight off stubborn infections and cancer more effectively.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R01'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | SCRIPPS RESEARCH INSTITUTE, THE (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (LA JOLLA, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11117137 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
When you have a long-lasting infection or cancer, your immune system's T cells can get tired and stop fighting as well. While some treatments, like checkpoint blockade, have helped a few people, many patients don't respond or stop responding over time. This project looks at a specific type of T cell that is important for keeping the immune response strong. We are studying how a molecule called IL-27 might help these special T cells stay active, divide, and avoid dying off, potentially leading to better ways to fight these diseases.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Patients with chronic infections or certain cancers who currently have limited treatment options or do not respond well to existing immunotherapies might eventually benefit from this research.
Not a fit: Patients whose conditions are not related to T cell exhaustion or who respond well to current treatments may not directly benefit from this specific line of research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could lead to new treatments that strengthen the immune system's ability to control chronic infections and various cancers.
How similar studies have performed: While current immune therapies have shown some success, this project explores a novel mechanism involving IL-27 to improve T cell function, building on recent discoveries about specific T cell types.
Where this research is happening
LA JOLLA, UNITED STATES
- SCRIPPS RESEARCH INSTITUTE, THE — LA JOLLA, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: TEIJARO, JOHN ROSS — SCRIPPS RESEARCH INSTITUTE, THE
- Study coordinator: TEIJARO, JOHN ROSS
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.