New CAR T-cell therapy targeting B cells for lupus treatment
Official title: Allogeneic BAFF Ligand Based CAR T-Cells as a Novel Therapy for Systemic Lupus Erythematous
Funded at Luminary Therapeutics, INC. · NIH-10761003 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is testing a new type of CAR T-cell therapy designed to help people with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) by targeting and removing the harmful B cells that contribute to the disease, with the hope of improving treatment outcomes and safety.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Sbir 1 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Luminary Therapeutics, INC. NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Minneapolis, United States) |
| Project start | August 1, 2023 |
| Project end | July 31, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2023 |
| Award (this year) | $299,770 |
| NIH project number | 1R43AI179375-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-10761003 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with systemic lupus erythematosus, particularly those with active disease and high levels of autoreactive B cells.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not have systemic lupus erythematosus or those with other autoimmune diseases may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates a novel therapy for systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) using allogeneic BAFF ligand-based CAR T-cells. The approach aims to eliminate autoreactive B cells, which are key drivers of SLE, by utilizing a new type of CAR T-cell that targets specific receptors on these cells. The study builds on previous findings that showed promise in B cell clearance and disease remission, but seeks to improve upon existing therapies by addressing limitations in targeting long-lived plasma cells. Patients may be monitored for biomarkers to assess treatment efficacy and safety.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide a new, more effective treatment option for patients with systemic lupus erythematosus.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown success with CAR T-cell therapies in other autoimmune conditions, indicating potential for this novel approach in lupus treatment.
Where this research is happening
-
Luminary Therapeutics, INC.
Minneapolis, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Gibbons, Hunter Ramsdell — Luminary Therapeutics, INC.
- Study coordinator: Gibbons, Hunter Ramsdell
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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.