Targeting and eliminating resistant cancer cells using modified immune cells
Eradication of Escaped Variant Tumor Cells for Cancer Immunotherapy
This study is looking at a new way to help your immune system fight cancer by using specially modified T cells that can better target and destroy tumor cells, even when those tumors have changed and become harder to treat.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Methodist Hospital Research Institute NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Houston, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10913964 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the use of genetically modified T cells, specifically CD39 knockout (CD39KO) T cells, to effectively target and eliminate tumor cells that have lost specific antigens, which often leads to cancer recurrence. The approach involves transferring these modified T cells into patients to enhance their immune response against tumors, particularly those that have become resistant to standard treatments. The study will explore how these T cells can promote the recruitment of other immune cells and produce signals that help clear tumors. By understanding the mechanisms behind this process, the research aims to develop more effective immunotherapy strategies for cancer treatment.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research would include patients with advanced cancers that have shown resistance to current treatments, particularly those with tumors expressing specific antigens targeted by the modified T cells.
Not a fit: Patients with early-stage cancers or those whose tumors do not express the targeted antigens may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective cancer immunotherapies that prevent tumor recurrence and improve long-term survival rates for patients.
How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promising results using similar approaches with modified T cells in cancer treatment, indicating potential for success in this area.
Where this research is happening
Houston, United States
- Methodist Hospital Research Institute — Houston, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Lu, Yong — Methodist Hospital Research Institute
- Study coordinator: Lu, Yong
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.