Developing a new method for heart disease treatment using modified T cells

A Novel Vector Strategy to Feasibilize Cellular Therapy for Heart Disease

NIH-funded research Washington University · NIH-10896482

This study is exploring a new way to help people with heart disease by developing a method that allows doctors to create special immune cells right inside the patient’s body, making treatment easier and more affordable.

Quick facts

Grant typeR21 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionWashington University NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Saint Louis, United States)
Project IDNIH-10896482 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on improving cellular therapy for heart disease by creating a novel gene delivery system that allows for the generation of CAR-T cells directly within patients. By using a combination of engineered viruses, the approach aims to enhance the targeting and efficiency of T cell reprogramming, which is crucial for effective treatment. The goal is to eliminate the need for complex and costly extracorporeal methods currently used in CAR-T therapy, making it more accessible for patients with cardiac conditions.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are patients with specific cardiac diseases who may benefit from advanced cellular therapies.

Not a fit: Patients with non-cardiac conditions or those who do not respond to cellular therapies may not receive any benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide a more efficient and cost-effective treatment option for patients suffering from heart disease.

How similar studies have performed: While CAR-T therapy has shown promise in other areas, this specific approach using engineered viruses for heart disease is novel and has not been extensively tested.

Where this research is happening

Saint Louis, 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.
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 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.