Next-generation T cells against KRAS-mutant cancers
Official title: Next generation T cell therapies for mutant KRAS solid tumors
Funded at University of Pennsylvania · NIH-11419566 · Data updated 2026-11-12
A new type of engineered T cells designed to target KRAS-mutant solid tumors in adults, with early clinical testing planned.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Pennsylvania NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Philadelphia, United States) |
| Project start | September 1, 2025 |
| Project end | August 31, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2026 |
| Award (this year) | $2,338,661 |
| NIH project number | 5UH3CA283652-04 |
| Project ID | NIH-11419566 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Adults with KRAS G12V-mutant solid tumors who are HLA-A*11:01 positive may be eligible.
✕Less likely to help
Patients without the specific KRAS mutation or HLA type, or those unable to undergo ACT, may not benefit.
What this research studies
This project aims to give patients with KRAS-mutant solid tumors a novel adoptive cell therapy using TCR1020 engineered T cells that recognize a specific KRAS mutation. Researchers will modify T cells to both overcome tumor resistance and persist longer in the body, potentially improving how well they work. The study includes evaluating both CD8+ and CD4+ T cell components and will assess safety and early clinical activity. If successful, this therapy could become available to patients who meet certain genetic and HLA criteria in the US.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, patients with KRAS-mutant tumors may experience tumor regression and longer-lasting responses from a personalized cell therapy.
How similar studies have gone: Prior work in adoptive cell therapy has shown promise; this project advances a next-generation approach targeting KRAS.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Pennsylvania
Philadelphia, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Carreno, Beatriz M. — University of Pennsylvania
- Study coordinator: Carreno, Beatriz M.
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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.