Using engineered immune cells to fight solid tumors

Targeting off-the-shelf iPSC-derived natural killer cells against solid tumors

['FUNDING_OTHER'] · UNIVERSITY OF MINNESOTA · NIH-10884329

This study is testing a new treatment that uses special immune cells made from stem cells to help fight tough solid tumors in patients with advanced cancer, offering a hopeful option for those who haven't had success with other therapies.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_OTHER']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorUNIVERSITY OF MINNESOTA (nih funded)
Locations1 site (MINNEAPOLIS, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-10884329 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research focuses on developing a new type of immunotherapy using natural killer (NK) cells derived from induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) to target solid tumors. The approach leverages the unique properties of NK cells that have been shown to be effective against cancer, particularly those that have been activated by cytomegalovirus (CMV). By creating a platform that allows for extensive genetic modifications of these NK cells, the research aims to enhance their ability to recognize and destroy cancer cells. Patients may benefit from this innovative treatment as it could provide a new option for those with advanced cancers that are difficult to treat with existing therapies.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research would be patients diagnosed with advanced solid tumors, particularly those expressing the HLA-E molecule.

Not a fit: Patients with early-stage cancers or those whose tumors do not express the targeted markers may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide a novel and effective treatment option for patients with advanced solid tumors.

How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promising results using NK cell therapies, indicating that this approach has the potential for success.

Where this research is happening

MINNEAPOLIS, 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.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Conditions: Advanced Cancer

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 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.