NIH-funded research R01 grant

Investigating how variations in CD3z ITAM affect CAR T cell performance

Official title: The Role of CD3z ITAM (Immunoreceptor Tyrosine-Based Activation Motif) diversity in CAR T cell Force and Function

Funded at University of Utah · NIH-10981241 · Data updated 2026-11-12

This study is looking at ways to make CAR T cell therapy better for people with certain blood cancers by exploring how different parts of the immune cells can help them work longer and more effectively, which could lead to fewer side effects and better results for patients.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Utah
NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Salt Lake City, United States)
Project startJuly 3, 2024
Project endJune 30, 2029
Funding year2024
Award (this year)$575,619
NIH project number1R01CA281294-01A1
Project IDNIH-10981241 on NIH RePORTER

Who could benefit from this research

Could help

Ideal candidates for this research are patients with B cell malignancies who are considering or currently undergoing CAR T cell therapy.

Less likely to help

Patients with solid tumors or those who do not have B cell malignancies may not benefit from this research.

What this research studies

This research focuses on improving CAR T cell therapy by examining the role of CD3z ITAM diversity in enhancing the effectiveness and longevity of these engineered immune cells. By analyzing how different ITAM sequences influence T cell activation and function, the study aims to optimize CAR constructs to reduce side effects and improve patient outcomes. The approach involves detailed assessments of T cell signaling and interactions in a controlled laboratory setting, which may lead to more effective treatments for certain blood cancers.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to safer and more effective CAR T cell therapies for patients with B cell malignancies.

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

Where this research is happening

  • University of Utah
    Salt Lake City, United States
    Active

Researchers

  • Principal investigator: Bettini, Matthew — University of Utah
  • Study coordinator: Bettini, Matthew

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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.
Last reviewed 2026-11-14 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.