Creating hydrogels to improve T cell therapies for cancer and autoimmune diseases

Lymph node inspired hydrogels for immune cell reprogramming

['FUNDING_R21'] · COLUMBIA UNIV NEW YORK MORNINGSIDE · NIH-11139785

This study is working on creating special gels that copy how lymph nodes work to help make T cell treatments for cancer and autoimmune diseases faster and cheaper, so more patients can get the care they need.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R21']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorCOLUMBIA UNIV NEW YORK MORNINGSIDE (nih funded)
Locations1 site (NEW YORK, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-11139785 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research focuses on developing innovative hydrogels that mimic the natural environment of lymph nodes to enhance the engineering of T cells for immunotherapy. By utilizing advanced techniques like DNA origami and colloidal science, the project aims to streamline the production of antigen-specific T cells, making the process more efficient and less costly. The goal is to overcome current challenges in T cell therapy, such as long production times and high costs, ultimately improving patient access to these treatments. Patients may benefit from more effective and affordable T cell therapies for conditions like cancer and autoimmune disorders.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are patients with cancer or autoimmune disorders who may benefit from advanced T cell therapies.

Not a fit: Patients who do not have cancer or autoimmune conditions may not receive any benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective and accessible T cell therapies for patients with cancer and autoimmune diseases.

How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promise in using biomimetic approaches to enhance T cell therapies, indicating potential for success in this novel approach.

Where this research is happening

NEW YORK, UNITED STATES

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Conditions: anti-cancer therapy

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.