Improving NK cell therapy for leukemia and multiple myeloma
Understanding and improving responses to adaptive NK cell therapy for leukemia and multiple myeloma
This study is looking at how to make a special type of immune cell therapy work better for people with acute myeloid leukemia or multiple myeloma by using donor cells from individuals who have had a certain virus, with the goal of helping patients stay cancer-free longer.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Career grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Minnesota NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Minneapolis, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11023088 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research focuses on enhancing the effectiveness of natural killer (NK) cell therapy for patients with acute myeloid leukemia (AML) and multiple myeloma (MM). The approach involves expanding a specific type of NK cell, known as adaptive NK cells, which have shown a greater ability to survive and function in the challenging tumor environment. By utilizing donor NK cells from individuals who have been exposed to cytomegalovirus (CMV), the research aims to improve patient outcomes by reducing the chances of cancer relapse. The study will explore methods to optimize the activation and longevity of these adaptive NK cells in treating these malignancies.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are patients diagnosed with acute myeloid leukemia or multiple myeloma, particularly those who have not responded well to other treatments.
Not a fit: Patients with other types of cancer or those who are not eligible for NK cell therapy may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective treatments for leukemia and multiple myeloma, potentially improving survival rates and reducing cancer relapse.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results with NK cell therapies, particularly in patients with AML and MM, indicating that this approach has potential for success.
Where this research is happening
Minneapolis, United States
- University of Minnesota — Minneapolis, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Merino, Aimee — University of Minnesota
- Study coordinator: Merino, Aimee
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 below.