Using MAIT cells to treat gastrointestinal cancers
MAIT cells as a therapeutic approach for gastrointestinal cancers
['FUNDING_R21'] · UNIVERSITY OF UTAH · NIH-10865685
This study is looking at a new way to help people with advanced colon cancer by using special immune cells called MAIT cells to fight tumors better, especially when other treatments aren't working as well.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R21'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | UNIVERSITY OF UTAH (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (SALT LAKE CITY, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-10865685 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
This research investigates the use of mucosal associated invariant T (MAIT) cells as a new immunotherapy for patients with gastrointestinal cancers, particularly colon cancer. The approach focuses on harnessing the innate immune qualities of MAIT cells to enhance anti-tumor responses, especially in late-stage cancer patients where traditional treatments are less effective. The researchers will conduct experiments using primary human cells and organoid models to evaluate the effectiveness of MAIT cells in reducing tumor growth and improving immune responses. Additionally, they will explore the potential of combining MAIT cell therapy with existing checkpoint therapies to boost treatment efficacy.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are patients diagnosed with late-stage gastrointestinal cancers, particularly colon cancer.
Not a fit: Patients with early-stage gastrointestinal cancers or those not diagnosed with gastrointestinal cancers may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide a novel immunotherapy option that improves outcomes for patients with late-stage gastrointestinal cancers.
How similar studies have performed: While the use of MAIT cells in cancer therapy is a relatively novel approach, preliminary data suggests potential effectiveness, indicating a promising avenue for further exploration.
Where this research is happening
SALT LAKE CITY, UNITED STATES
- UNIVERSITY OF UTAH — SALT LAKE CITY, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: LEUNG, DANIEL TED — UNIVERSITY OF UTAH
- Study coordinator: LEUNG, DANIEL TED
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.
Conditions: Cancers, neoplasm/cancer