Improving the function of CAR-T cells for cancer treatment

Tuning CAR-T cell function

NIH-funded research Univ of North Carolina Chapel Hill · NIH-11026353

This study is looking at how to make CAR-T cells, which are special immune cells that fight cancer, work better and last longer by tweaking certain signals they receive, so it can help improve treatment for patients with specific types of cancer.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniv of North Carolina Chapel Hill NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Chapel Hill, United States)
Project IDNIH-11026353 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates how to enhance the effectiveness of CAR-T cells, which are engineered immune cells used to target and destroy cancer cells. The study focuses on understanding the different ways that costimulation signals, specifically from CD28 and 4-1BB, affect the behavior and longevity of these CAR-T cells. By manipulating these signals, researchers aim to improve the persistence and activity of CAR-T cells in attacking tumors, potentially leading to better outcomes for patients with certain types of cancers. The research employs advanced techniques to analyze the cellular mechanisms involved in T cell activation and function.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are patients with specific types of cancers that are currently treated with CAR-T cell therapies.

Not a fit: Patients with cancers that do not respond to CAR-T cell therapies or those who are not eligible for such treatments may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective CAR-T cell therapies, improving cancer treatment outcomes for patients.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in enhancing CAR-T cell therapies, indicating that this approach has potential for success.

Where this research is happening

Chapel Hill, 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.