Improving T-Cell Function in Cancer Treatment
Official title: PyroTIMER Technology: Enabling T-Cell Persistence in Immunosuppressive Tumor Microenvironments
Funded at Pyrojas INC · NIH-11008389 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is testing a new type of CAR-T cell therapy called PyroTIMER CAR-T cells to help cancer patients by making the treatment work better against tumors that can weaken the immune system, with the hope of improving how well patients respond to the therapy.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Sbir 2 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Pyrojas INC NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (New York, United States) |
| Project start | September 23, 2024 |
| Project end | August 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $748,337 |
| NIH project number | 1R44CA295355-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-11008389 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are patients with cancers that are currently treated with CAR-T cell therapies, particularly those facing challenges due to immunosuppressive tumor microenvironments.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with cancers that do not utilize CAR-T cell therapies or those who are not eligible for such treatments may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on enhancing the effectiveness of CAR-T cell therapies for cancer patients by addressing the challenges posed by the immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment. It introduces a novel technology called PyroTIMER CAR-T cells, which aims to provide a more durable inhibition of the transforming growth factor-beta (TGF-β) that often limits T cell activity. The study will utilize advanced models to assess how these modified T cells interact with tumors and their surrounding environment, with a goal of improving patient outcomes. By employing sophisticated techniques like multi-parametric flow cytometry, the research will explore the immune dynamics and potential risks associated with this innovative therapy.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective cancer treatments by enhancing the persistence and function of T-cells in challenging tumor environments.
How similar studies have gone: While CAR-T cell therapies have shown promise, this specific approach using PyroTIMER technology is novel and has not been extensively tested in prior studies.
Where this research is happening
-
Pyrojas INC
New York, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Bagati, Archis — Pyrojas INC
- Study coordinator: Bagati, Archis
Related research
Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.
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Helping CAR‑T cells stay active inside suppressive tumors
This project develops a new type of CAR‑T cell, called PyroTIMER, designed to resist tumor signals that wear out immune cells so people with B‑cell lymphoma might get stronger, longer‑lasting cell therapy.
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.