Disabling Ant2 Protein Enhances T Cell Function to Combat Cancer

Tue, 14 Apr 2026 21:27:00 +0200

Researchers at the Hebrew University of Jerusalem, in collaboration with scientists from Philipps University of Marburg and MD Anderson Cancer Center, have discovered a method to enhance the immune system's T cells to fight cancer more effectively. By blocking a protein called Ant2, T cells are forced to reprogram their energy metabolism. This metabolic rewiring strengthens the cells, making them faster, more resilient, and more efficient at detecting and destroying cancer cells. The study, published in Nature Communications, demonstrates that this shift not only improves T cell endurance and proliferation but can also be triggered using drugs, offering potential for future cancer therapies. The findings highlight the intimate connection between cellular metabolism and immune function, suggesting a new avenue for treatments that enhance the body's natural defenses rather than relying solely on external interventions. This research could lead to next-generation immunotherapies that opti