Better BCMA-targeted T cell therapy for multiple myeloma
preclinical optimization of BCMA directed T cell therapy
This project tests ways to make BCMA-targeting T cell treatments work better for people with multiple myeloma.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Mayo Clinic Arizona NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Scottsdale, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11175997 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
Researchers are using a fully immunocompetent mouse model that mimics human multiple myeloma to study how tumors change nearby immune cells. They found that high tumor burden can overstimulate and exhaust T cells, reducing the effect of BCMA-directed bispecific antibodies. The team will test combination approaches to boost T cell function and optimize BCMA-directed T cell therapies before moving toward human trials. The focus is on refining dosing and partner drugs to make these therapies stronger and longer lasting.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates are people with relapsed or refractory multiple myeloma who may be considering BCMA-directed treatments in the future.
Not a fit: People without multiple myeloma, or whose myeloma cells do not express BCMA, are unlikely to benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could lead to stronger, longer-lasting BCMA-targeted T cell therapies and fewer relapses for people with multiple myeloma.
How similar studies have performed: BCMA-directed CAR-T cells and bispecific antibodies have produced strong remissions in many patients, but relapses are common and combination strategies remain under active research.
Where this research is happening
Scottsdale, United States
- Mayo Clinic Arizona — Scottsdale, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Chesi, Marta — Mayo Clinic Arizona
- Study coordinator: Chesi, Marta
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.