Using engineered T cells to improve imaging for brain cancer and track CAR-T cell therapy

Engineered T cell-based imaging for glioblastoma and CAR-T cell tracking

NIH-funded research University of California, San Francisco · NIH-10932989

This study is testing a new way to see brain tumors more clearly using special T cells that can target cancer cells, which could help doctors find tumors earlier and track how well treatments are working, making it easier to personalize care for patients with glioblastoma.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of California, San Francisco NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (San Francisco, United States)
Project IDNIH-10932989 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on developing a novel imaging technique using engineered T cells to visualize glioblastoma, a type of brain cancer, and to track CAR-T cell therapy. By utilizing a specialized receptor called SNIPR, these T cells can specifically target cancer cells and release signals that enhance imaging clarity. The approach combines advanced molecular biology and immunology techniques to create a more sensitive imaging method that could lead to earlier detection of tumors and better monitoring of treatment responses. Patients may benefit from improved diagnostic accuracy and personalized treatment strategies.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are patients diagnosed with glioblastoma or those undergoing CAR-T cell therapy.

Not a fit: Patients with other types of cancer or those not receiving CAR-T cell therapy may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to earlier detection of glioblastoma and more effective tracking of CAR-T cell therapies, ultimately improving patient outcomes.

How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promise in using engineered T cells for imaging and tracking therapies, indicating a potential for success in this novel approach.

Where this research is happening

San Francisco, 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.