Using special antibodies to activate T cells against leukemia

Tumor-site activated T cell redirecting autoantibodies

NIH-funded research University of Pennsylvania · NIH-11119472

This study is looking at a new type of treatment using special antibodies that help your immune system fight acute B-lymphocytic leukemia by connecting your T cells directly to the cancer cells, which could make the treatment work better and require less medicine.

Quick facts

Grant typeR21 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Pennsylvania NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Philadelphia, United States)
Project IDNIH-11119472 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the use of bispecific antibodies that can bind to both T cells and cancer cells, specifically targeting acute B-lymphocytic leukemia. By bringing these two types of cells closer together, the antibodies aim to enhance the immune system's ability to clear cancer cells more effectively. The approach focuses on improving specificity and reducing the required dosage compared to traditional antibody therapies, potentially leading to better patient outcomes. The study builds on previous successes with similar therapies, aiming to address challenges in targeting tumor-associated antigens.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are patients diagnosed with acute B-lymphocytic leukemia who are seeking innovative treatment options.

Not a fit: Patients with solid tumors or those not diagnosed with acute B-lymphocytic leukemia may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective and less toxic treatments for patients with acute B-lymphocytic leukemia.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results with bispecific antibodies in treating various cancers, indicating a strong potential for success in this approach.

Where this research is happening

Philadelphia, 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.
Conditions anti-cancer therapy
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.