Creating new biosensors to control cell therapies

De Novo Engineering of Small Molecule-Actuatable Biosensors for Cell Therapy

['FUNDING_OTHER'] · UNIVERSITY OF WASHINGTON · NIH-10461083

This study is working on new tools that help doctors better control special immune cells used in cancer treatments, making them safer and more effective for patients with blood cancers.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_OTHER']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorUNIVERSITY OF WASHINGTON (nih funded)
Locations1 site (SEATTLE, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-10461083 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research focuses on developing innovative biosensors that can be activated by small molecules to control the behavior of cells used in therapies, such as CAR-T cells for treating blood cancers. By engineering these biosensors, the goal is to enhance the safety and effectiveness of cell-based treatments by allowing precise control over cell actions like growth, death, and communication. The approach combines advanced computational design with a novel screening technology to create biosensors that respond specifically to small molecules, addressing current limitations in cell therapy. This could lead to more reliable and safer treatment options for patients.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are patients undergoing treatment for blood cancers who may benefit from advanced cell therapies.

Not a fit: Patients with conditions that do not involve cell-based therapies or those who are not candidates for such treatments may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could significantly improve the safety and efficacy of cell therapies for patients with various cancers.

How similar studies have performed: While the approach of using biosensors in cell therapy is innovative, similar strategies have shown promise in preliminary studies, indicating potential for success.

Where this research is happening

SEATTLE, 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 →

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.