Harvey Cantor

Harvey Cantor

Professor of Immunology
Harvey Cantor

The Cantor lab studies the development and function of T-cell subsets. Early studies indicated that the thymus gave rise to two major lineages of T cells that recognized the MHC class II and class I molecules and were equipped to mediate distinct immunological functions before overt encounter with antigen. These experiments are based on the idea that the pattern of proteins expressed on the cell-surface can be used to trace the distinct T-cell lineages that comprise the immune system. This approach was initially used to dissect cell-mediated immunity into its cellular components, to isolate natural killer cells, and more recently, to define regulatory and effector lineages within the CD8+ T-cell subset.

Current studies in the Cantor lab have begun to define regulatory T cell lineages that inhibit the development of autoimmune disease and may regulate anti-viral and anti-tumor immunity. More recent studies have suggested that expression of the Helios transcription factor by Treg ensures a stable inhibitory phenotype and maintenance of self tolerance in the face of inflammatory and infectious challenge. We are currently studying non-classical CD8+ T-cells that recognize viral peptides presented by class Ib MHC molecules, termed MHC-E, in efforts to define their contribution to protective anti-viral and anti-tumor immunity in the face of class Ia MHC immune evasion. Additional studies focus on discovery of genetic and epigenetic targets that control the tumor microenvironment, and the potential contribution of cells of the immune system to Alzheimer's Disease. We believe that increased understanding of these cellular and molecular mechanisms will be essential to craft more effective approaches to vaccine design and immunotherapy.

Contact Information

Dana Farber Cancer Institute
1 Jimmy Fund Way
Smith Bldg., Room 722
Boston, MA 02115
p: 617-632-3348

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