Using RNA-engineered CAR T cells to treat lupus
Targeting BCMA+ Cells with RNA-engineered CAR T cells to treat Lupus: A Phase 2 clinical study
This study is testing a new way to use your own immune cells to help treat lupus by making them better at targeting and getting rid of the harmful cells that cause the disease, all while keeping the treatment safer and easier for you.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Cartesian Therapeutics, INC. NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Gaithersburg, UNITED STATES) |
| Project ID | NIH-10929738 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates a novel cell therapy for systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), an autoimmune disease affecting millions. The approach involves engineering a patient's own T cells to express a chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) that targets and eliminates harmful cells associated with lupus. Unlike traditional CAR T therapies that permanently modify the genome, this method uses RNA to create a temporary CAR expression, reducing toxicity and eliminating the need for preconditioning chemotherapy. This innovative strategy aims to provide a safer and more effective treatment option for patients suffering from lupus.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with systemic lupus erythematosus who have not responded well to existing treatments.
Not a fit: Patients with mild lupus symptoms or those who are not diagnosed with systemic lupus erythematosus may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to a safer and more effective treatment for lupus, improving patients' quality of life.
How similar studies have performed: While CAR T cell therapies have shown success in treating certain cancers, this RNA-engineered approach for lupus is novel and has not been extensively tested.
Where this research is happening
Gaithersburg, UNITED STATES
- Cartesian Therapeutics, INC. — Gaithersburg, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Jewell, Christopher M — Cartesian Therapeutics, INC.
- Study coordinator: Jewell, Christopher M
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.