Using sound waves to control cancer-fighting cells in the body
Acoustothermogenetics for Cell Engineering
This study is exploring a new way to use sound waves to control special cancer-fighting cells in your body without any surgery, which could make treatments more effective and targeted for patients with cancer.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Southern California NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Los Angeles, UNITED STATES) |
| Project ID | NIH-11093506 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research focuses on developing a new method called acoustothermogenetics, which allows for the non-invasive manipulation of live cell functions deep within the body using ultrasound signals. By engineering cells, particularly CAR-T cells used in cancer therapy, to respond to these sound waves, the researchers aim to control the activity of these cells remotely. This innovative approach could enhance the effectiveness of cell-based immunotherapies by enabling precise targeting of tumors without invasive procedures. The study will involve creating molecular sensors that can detect ultrasound and trigger the production of therapeutic proteins in response.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are patients with solid tumors who are considering or currently undergoing CAR-T cell therapy.
Not a fit: Patients with non-solid tumors or those not eligible for CAR-T cell therapy may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective and targeted cancer treatments with fewer side effects.
How similar studies have performed: While the concept of acoustothermogenetics is novel, similar approaches using optogenetics and ultrasound in other contexts have shown promising results.
Where this research is happening
Los Angeles, UNITED STATES
- University of Southern California — Los Angeles, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Wang, Yingxiao — University of Southern California
- Study coordinator: Wang, Yingxiao
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.