Improving CAR-T cell therapy for children with relapsed B-cell leukemia

Inhibiting Free Fatty Acid Transport to Improve CAR-T Cell Therapy of Relapsed B-cell Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia

NIH-funded research University of Colorado Denver · NIH-11016165

This study is looking at how blocking certain fatty acids might make CAR-T cell therapy work better for kids and young adults with relapsed B-cell leukemia, especially those with specific gene changes, to help them get better when other treatments haven't worked.

Quick facts

Grant typeR37 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Colorado Denver NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Aurora, UNITED STATES)
Project IDNIH-11016165 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates how inhibiting the transport of free fatty acids can enhance the effectiveness of CAR-T cell therapy in treating relapsed B-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia (B-ALL) in children and young adults. The study focuses on understanding the mechanisms of resistance to CAR-T therapy, particularly in cases with TP53 mutations. By using advanced techniques like CRISPR/Cas9 screening, researchers aim to identify specific fatty acid transporters that, when inhibited, could improve patient outcomes. The goal is to provide a more effective treatment option for patients who have not responded to traditional therapies.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are children and young adults diagnosed with relapsed B-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia, particularly those with chemotherapy-resistant cases.

Not a fit: Patients who do not have B-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia or those who are not relapsed or refractory to existing therapies may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved survival rates and treatment responses for children and young adults with relapsed B-ALL.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in enhancing CAR-T cell therapy through metabolic interventions, suggesting that this approach may yield significant advancements.

Where this research is happening

Aurora, 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.