Improving CAR T cell therapy for pediatric leukemia using small molecule inhibitors

Leveraging small molecule inhibitors to improve CD19 CAR T cell immunotherapy for KMT2A-rearranged ALL

NIH-funded research Roswell Park Cancer Institute Corp · NIH-11200894

This study is looking at ways to make CAR T cell therapy work better for kids with a specific type of leukemia by using special medicines, and it's all about helping young patients get better treatment.

Quick facts

Grant typeCareer grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionRoswell Park Cancer Institute Corp NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Buffalo, United States)
Project IDNIH-11200894 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on enhancing the effectiveness of CAR T cell immunotherapy for children with KMT2A-rearranged acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) by using small molecule inhibitors. The project aims to develop targeted therapies that can improve treatment outcomes for this high-risk group. Led by Dr. Lisa Niswander, a pediatric oncologist, the research will involve advanced techniques in T cell biology and clinical trial design, supported by experienced mentors and a collaborative environment at the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia. The goal is to translate these findings into clinical applications that can benefit young patients suffering from leukemia.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are children diagnosed with KMT2A-rearranged acute lymphoblastic leukemia.

Not a fit: Patients with other types of leukemia or those who do not have KMT2A rearrangements may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective treatments for children with a particularly aggressive form of leukemia, potentially improving survival rates.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in enhancing CAR T cell therapies with targeted approaches, indicating potential for success in this novel application.

Where this research is happening

Buffalo, 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 2026-06-09 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.