Improving CAR T cell therapy for solid tumors using a surgical drug delivery system

Development of a Surgical Drug Delivery System for Enhancement of CAR T Cell Activity

NIH-funded research Boston University (Charles River Campus) · NIH-10900591

This study is testing a new type of surgical mesh that helps improve CAR T cell therapy for solid tumors by releasing helpful proteins right where the tumor was removed, making it easier for the special CAR T cells to fight the cancer and hopefully lead to better results for patients.

Quick facts

Grant typeFellowship grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionBoston University (Charles River Campus) NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Boston, United States)
Project IDNIH-10900591 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on enhancing the effectiveness of CAR T cell therapy for solid tumors by developing a novel surgical mesh that releases specific proteins and cytokines directly into the tumor area. The mesh is designed to be implanted in the cavity left after tumor removal and works in conjunction with a specialized CAR T cell called a zipCAR, which can better target cancer cells. By providing a localized environment that promotes T cell activity and prevents adverse effects, this approach aims to improve patient outcomes in solid tumor treatments.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are patients with solid tumors who are undergoing surgical resection and may benefit from enhanced CAR T cell therapy.

Not a fit: Patients with hematologic malignancies or those who are not candidates for surgical intervention may not receive benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could significantly improve the effectiveness of CAR T cell therapy for patients with solid tumors, potentially leading to better treatment outcomes.

How similar studies have performed: While there have been advancements in CAR T cell therapies, this specific approach using a surgical mesh is novel and has not been extensively tested in prior studies.

Where this research is happening

Boston, 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.