Delivering mRNA to specific diseased cells using engineered T cells

Targeted cell-to-cell mRNA delivery of therapeutic circuits

['FUNDING_FELLOWSHIP'] · CALIFORNIA INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY · NIH-10950323

This study is exploring a new way to use specially modified immune cells to deliver helpful mRNA directly to sick cells in the body, which could lead to better treatments for cancer and genetic disorders.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_FELLOWSHIP']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorCALIFORNIA INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY (nih funded)
Locations1 site (PASADENA, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-10950323 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research focuses on developing a method to deliver mRNA specifically to diseased cells in the body, which could help in treating conditions like cancer and genetic disorders. The approach involves engineering primary human T cells to act as delivery vehicles that can transport mRNA to target cells. By using synthetic export vehicles, these modified T cells can transfer mRNA that may correct mutations or induce cell death in tumors. The project aims to optimize this delivery system and demonstrate its effectiveness in living organisms.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research would include patients with specific types of cancer or genetic disorders that could benefit from targeted mRNA therapy.

Not a fit: Patients with conditions that do not involve targeted cell types or those who are not candidates for mRNA therapies may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective treatments for various diseases by enabling precise delivery of therapeutic mRNA to targeted cells.

How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promising results in using engineered cells for targeted delivery of therapeutic agents, indicating potential success for this approach.

Where this research is happening

PASADENA, 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: Adult-Onset Diabetes Mellitus, Cancers

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.