Monkey virus protein may help supercharge cancer immunotherapy, scientists say

Monkey virus protein may help supercharge cancer immunotherapy, scientists say

Scientists at the University of Michigan have developed a protein derived from a monkey herpesvirus that may enhance the immune system’s ability to fight cancer. The engineered protein, based on herpesvirus saimiri, was shown to extend the lifespan of cancer-fighting T cells in mice, leading to reduced tumor growth.

The protein, a modified version of tyrosine kinase interacting protein (TIP), was designed to activate pathways in T cells that increase levels of STAT5—a molecule linked to improved cell survival and function. In experiments, treated mice with melanoma and lymphoma showed better tumor control compared to untreated groups.

The findings, published in Science Immunology, suggest that the protein could strengthen current immunotherapy approaches by sustaining T cell activity in solid tumors. While the treatment remains experimental, researchers say it highlights the potential of engineering viral proteins to enhance immune-based cancer therapies.