Improving how CAR T cells reach tumors using sugar modifications
Official title: Enhancing CAR T Cell Homing Through Glycoengineering
Funded at University of Tx Md Anderson Can Ctr · NIH-10805523 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at a new way to help special immune cells called CAR T cells find and attack tumors better, especially for people with blood cancers, by adding sugar molecules to them, which might make the treatment work even more effectively.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Tx Md Anderson Can Ctr NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Houston, United States) |
| Project start | March 9, 2023 |
| Project end | February 28, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $179,870 |
| NIH project number | 5R21CA270491-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10805523 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are patients with hematologic malignancies who are undergoing CAR T cell therapy.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with solid tumors or those not receiving CAR T cell therapy may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates a method to enhance the ability of CAR T cells to home in on tumor sites, which is crucial for effective cancer treatment. The approach involves a process called fucosylation, where sugar molecules are added to the surface of T cells to improve their targeting to tumors. By modifying these cells, the researchers aim to increase their effectiveness in attacking cancer cells, particularly in patients with hematologic malignancies. The study will explore whether these modifications can lead to better outcomes for patients receiving CAR T cell therapy.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could significantly improve the effectiveness of CAR T cell therapies for cancer patients.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in enhancing T cell homing through similar glycoengineering techniques, indicating potential for success in this approach.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Tx Md Anderson Can Ctr
Houston, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Al-Atrash, Gheath — University of Tx Md Anderson Can Ctr
- Study coordinator: Al-Atrash, Gheath
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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.