Using MAIT cells to treat gastrointestinal cancers
Official title: MAIT cells as a therapeutic approach for gastrointestinal cancers
Funded at University of Utah · NIH-10865685 · Data updated 2026-11-12
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
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Utah NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Salt Lake City, United States) |
| Project start | May 3, 2024 |
| Project end | April 30, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $384,092 |
| NIH project number | 1R21CA280224-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-10865685 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are patients diagnosed with late-stage gastrointestinal cancers, particularly colon cancer.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with early-stage gastrointestinal cancers or those not diagnosed with gastrointestinal cancers may not benefit from this research.
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.
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 gone: 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
-
University of Utah
Salt Lake City, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Leung, Daniel Ted — University of Utah
- Study coordinator: Leung, Daniel Ted
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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.