Investigating how anti-FAP CAR T cells affect heart tissue in fibrosis

Exploring the immunomodulatory effects of anti-FAP CAR T cells in cardiac fibrosis

NIH-funded research Washington University · NIH-11115549

This study is looking at a new type of treatment using special T cells that target a protein involved in heart scarring, with the hope of helping people with heart failure feel better and improve their heart function.

Quick facts

Grant typeFellowship grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionWashington University NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Saint Louis, United States)
Project IDNIH-11115549 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research explores the use of engineered T cells that target fibroblast activation protein (FAP) to treat cardiac fibrosis, a condition that can worsen heart function. By utilizing advanced sequencing technologies, the study aims to understand how these CAR T cells interact with heart cells and whether they can effectively reduce fibrosis. The research will involve preclinical models to assess the safety and efficacy of this innovative therapy, potentially leading to new treatment options for heart failure patients.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are patients with heart failure characterized by cardiac fibrosis.

Not a fit: Patients with non-cardiac related conditions or those without evidence of cardiac fibrosis may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapies that improve heart function and outcomes for patients with cardiac fibrosis.

How similar studies have performed: Initial studies using similar CAR T cell approaches in other contexts have shown promise, but this specific application in cardiac fibrosis is novel.

Where this research is happening

Saint Louis, 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 2026-06-10 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.