Using engineered immune cells to target pancreatic cancer
TROP2-Directed CAR-NK Cells for the Immunotherapy of Pancreatic Cancer
This study is testing a new treatment for pancreatic cancer that uses specially modified immune cells to better target and attack cancer cells, aiming to create a safe and effective option that can be used for many patients without needing to make individual doses.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Tx Md Anderson Can Ctr NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Houston, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11067768 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research focuses on developing a new type of immunotherapy for pancreatic cancer by using genetically modified natural killer (NK) cells that specifically target a protein called TROP2. The approach involves enhancing the NK cells' ability to attack cancer cells while ensuring their safety and effectiveness. By utilizing cord blood-derived NK cells, the study aims to create a universal treatment option that can be administered to multiple patients without the need for individual cell manufacturing. The research will explore how to improve the persistence and potency of these NK cells in the challenging environment of pancreatic tumors.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are patients diagnosed with pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma who have limited treatment options.
Not a fit: Patients with other types of cancer or those who do not have pancreatic cancer 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 pancreatic cancer, potentially improving survival rates.
How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown promising results with CAR-NK cell therapies in other types of cancers, indicating potential for success in this novel application.
Where this research is happening
Houston, United States
- University of Tx Md Anderson Can Ctr — Houston, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Basar, Rafet — University of Tx Md Anderson Can Ctr
- Study coordinator: Basar, Rafet
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.