Using engineered T cells to target specific tumors in children
IL-15 and -21 armored GPC3-specific CAR T cells for children with solid tumors
This study is testing a new treatment that helps the immune system's T cells better fight certain solid tumors in children by teaching them to recognize a specific protein, with the hope of improving outcomes for young patients battling these cancers.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Baylor College of Medicine NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Houston, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11009581 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research focuses on developing a new type of T cell therapy that targets a specific protein found in certain solid tumors in children. The approach involves modifying T cells to express a receptor that recognizes this protein, along with two important cytokines that help the T cells survive and function better. By enhancing the T cells' ability to attack tumors, the researchers aim to improve treatment outcomes for pediatric patients with solid tumors. The study will involve preclinical models to assess the effectiveness and safety of this innovative therapy.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are children under 12 years old who have solid tumors expressing the glypican-3 protein.
Not a fit: Patients with hematologic cancers or those whose tumors do not express the targeted glypican-3 protein may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective treatments for children with solid tumors, potentially improving survival rates and quality of life.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results with CAR T cell therapies in hematologic cancers, but this approach for solid tumors is still being explored and is considered novel.
Where this research is happening
Houston, United States
- Baylor College of Medicine — Houston, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Heczey, Andras a. — Baylor College of Medicine
- Study coordinator: Heczey, Andras a.
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.