KITv-enhanced CAR T cells for mesothelin-positive solid tumors
Tuning KITv CAR T cells for the solid tumor environment
['FUNDING_R01'] · SLOAN-KETTERING INST CAN RESEARCH · NIH-11168905
This work develops engineered CAR T cells that use a KITv switch to help treat people with mesothelin-expressing solid tumors, including pleural cancers.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R01'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | SLOAN-KETTERING INST CAN RESEARCH (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (NEW YORK, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11168905 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
You would receive engineered CAR T cells that target mesothelin and include a KITv costimulatory switch to help them stay active inside solid tumors. The cells also include a built-in PD1 dominant-negative receptor and are given regionally (for example intrapleurally) to avoid lung trapping and resist suppression from TGFβ. Earlier mesothelin-directed CAR T approaches have been given to dozens of patients with good on-target safety, and preclinical KITv data show improved persistence and tumor killing. The team aims to bring these tuned CAR T cells into clinical use for people with mesothelin-positive cancers.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates are people with mesothelin-expressing solid tumors (for example malignant pleural mesothelioma or other MSLN-positive cancers) who are eligible for CAR T–cell therapy and regional delivery.
Not a fit: People whose tumors do not express mesothelin, who cannot tolerate cellular immunotherapy, or who are unable to travel to a specialized treatment center are unlikely to benefit from this approach.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, patients could receive CAR T cells that persist longer in tumors and overcome the suppressive tumor environment, potentially improving responses and survival for some solid tumors.
How similar studies have performed: Earlier mesothelin-targeting CAR T cells have been given to dozens of patients with acceptable on-target safety, and built-in PD1DNR and KITv approaches have shown promise in early patient use and preclinical models.
Where this research is happening
NEW YORK, UNITED STATES
- SLOAN-KETTERING INST CAN RESEARCH — NEW YORK, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: ADUSUMILLI, PRASAD S. — SLOAN-KETTERING INST CAN RESEARCH
- Study coordinator: ADUSUMILLI, PRASAD S.
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.