Using engineered T cells to improve imaging for brain cancer and track CAR-T cell therapy
Official title: Engineered T cell-based imaging for glioblastoma and CAR-T cell tracking
Funded at University of California, San Francisco · NIH-10932989 · Data updated 2026-11-12
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 type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of California, San Francisco NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (San Francisco, United States) |
| Project start | September 21, 2023 |
| Project end | August 31, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $626,733 |
| NIH project number | 5R01CA271602-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10932989 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are patients diagnosed with glioblastoma or those undergoing CAR-T cell therapy.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with other types of cancer or those not receiving CAR-T cell therapy may not benefit from this research.
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.
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 gone: 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
-
University of California, San Francisco
San Francisco, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Roybal, Kole T — University of California, San Francisco
- Study coordinator: Roybal, Kole T
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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.