Developing a new method to enhance CAR T cell therapy for brain tumors
Official title: Design of a Novel Nanocarrier Technology to Drug-Load CAR T cells
Funded at University of Kansas Medical Center · NIH-10877055 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at a new way to help treat Glioblastoma, a tough brain cancer, by using tiny technology to improve special immune cells that can better fight the cancer while causing fewer side effects, so patients can have a safer and more effective treatment option.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Kansas Medical Center NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Kansas City, United States) |
| Project start | July 1, 2023 |
| Project end | June 30, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $545,643 |
| NIH project number | 5R01CA284065-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10877055 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are adults diagnosed with Glioblastoma Multiforme who are seeking advanced treatment options.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with other types of brain tumors or those who are not eligible for CAR T cell therapy may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on improving treatment for Glioblastoma Multiforme (GBM), a challenging brain cancer with low survival rates. The approach involves using nanotechnology to create a novel method for drug-loading CAR T cells, which are engineered immune cells designed to target and destroy cancer cells. By enhancing the effectiveness of these CAR T cells while reducing side effects, the research aims to overcome barriers posed by the tumor microenvironment that currently limit treatment success. Patients may benefit from a more effective and less toxic therapy option for GBM.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to a more effective and safer treatment option for patients with Glioblastoma Multiforme.
How similar studies have gone: While CAR T cell therapy has shown promise in hematological cancers, its application in solid tumors like GBM is still being explored, making this approach both innovative and necessary.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Kansas Medical Center
Kansas City, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Akhavan, David — University of Kansas Medical Center
- Study coordinator: Akhavan, David
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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.