Targeting VLA-4 to improve T-cell therapy for solid tumors
Official title: VLA-4–targeted 67Cu-LLP2A preconditioning enhances efficacy of T-cell-based adoptive immunotherapy
Funded at University of Pittsburgh at Pittsburgh · NIH-10881911 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is exploring a new way to make T-cell therapies work better for people with solid tumors by using a special treatment to help T-cells thrive, and it might offer hope for those who have struggled with current treatments.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Pittsburgh at Pittsburgh NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Pittsburgh, United States) |
| Project start | July 5, 2023 |
| Project end | June 30, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $580,985 |
| NIH project number | 5R01CA275766-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10881911 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are adults with solid tumors who are considering T-cell-based immunotherapy.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with hematological cancers or those who do not have solid tumors may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates a new approach to enhance the effectiveness of T-cell therapies, particularly for solid tumors, which have been challenging to treat. The study focuses on using a targeted therapy called 67Cu-LLP2A to selectively deplete certain immune cells that hinder T-cell function. By combining this targeted therapy with a reduced dose of traditional chemotherapy, the researchers aim to improve T-cell engraftment and persistence in the tumor environment. Patients may benefit from this innovative treatment strategy that seeks to overcome barriers faced by current therapies.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective treatments for patients with solid tumors, improving their chances of recovery.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in using targeted therapies to enhance T-cell efficacy, suggesting potential for success in this novel approach.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Pittsburgh at Pittsburgh
Pittsburgh, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Patel, Ravi Bhasker — University of Pittsburgh at Pittsburgh
- Study coordinator: Patel, Ravi Bhasker
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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.