Using artificial cells to boost the immune response against cancer

Tri-Signal Artificial Antigen Presenting Cells for Cancer Immunotherapy

NIH-funded research Johns Hopkins University · NIH-10913348

This study is exploring a new way to help your immune system fight cancer by using special artificial cells that can directly activate important immune cells in your body, making treatment easier and more effective for patients like you.

Quick facts

Grant typeFellowship grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionJohns Hopkins University NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Baltimore, United States)
Project IDNIH-10913348 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on developing a new type of artificial cell that can activate the immune system's CD8+ T cells directly in the body to fight cancer. By using biocompatible materials, the project aims to create a more efficient and cost-effective method for cancer immunotherapy compared to traditional approaches. The artificial antigen presenting cells (aAPCs) will be designed to deliver the necessary signals for T cell activation without the need for complex laboratory procedures. Patients may benefit from a more accessible and effective treatment option for their cancer.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are cancer patients who are eligible for adoptive cellular therapy and have specific tumor types that respond to CD8+ T cell activation.

Not a fit: Patients with cancers that do not involve CD8+ T cell responses or those who are not candidates for immunotherapy may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide a more efficient and less expensive immunotherapy option for cancer patients.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in using artificial antigen presenting cells for T cell activation, indicating that this approach could lead to significant advancements in cancer treatment.

Where this research is happening

Baltimore, 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.
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.