Targeting cancer cells and their surrounding support cells to improve T cell therapy effectiveness

Targeting Cancer-Associated Fibroblasts Prevents Resistance to Chimeric Antigen Receptor T Cell Therapy

NIH-funded research Mayo Clinic Rochester · NIH-10949029

This study is looking at how certain cells in tumors, called cancer-associated fibroblasts, can make CAR T cell therapy less effective for people with B-cell cancers, and it aims to find ways to improve this treatment by targeting both the cancer and these cells together.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionMayo Clinic Rochester NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Rochester, United States)
Project IDNIH-10949029 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates how cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) affect the success of chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T cell therapy in patients with B-cell malignancies. By understanding the mechanisms through which CAFs induce dysfunction in CAR T cells, the study aims to develop strategies that can enhance the effectiveness of this therapy. The research will involve analyzing patient samples and using advanced models to test the safety and efficacy of targeting both cancer cells and CAFs simultaneously. Patients may have the opportunity to contribute to this research by providing samples and participating in related studies.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are patients with relapse or refractory B-cell malignancies, such as multiple myeloma, who are undergoing or have undergone CAR T cell therapy.

Not a fit: Patients with non-B-cell malignancies or those who have not received CAR T cell therapy may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved outcomes for patients undergoing CAR T cell therapy by preventing resistance and enhancing treatment effectiveness.

How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promising results in targeting the tumor microenvironment alongside CAR T cell therapy, suggesting that this approach may be effective.

Where this research is happening

Rochester, United States

Researchers

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 below.
Conditions anti-cancer immunotherapyanticancer immunotherapy
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 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.