Using specialized immune cells to treat neuroblastoma in children
CAR NKT Cell Immunotherapy of Neuroblastoma
This study is looking at a new way to help children with neuroblastoma by using specially modified immune cells to better find and fight the cancer, and so far, it seems safe and promising!
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-11115581 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the use of chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) natural killer T cells (NKTs) to target and treat neuroblastoma, a type of cancer primarily affecting children. The approach involves modifying NKTs to enhance their ability to recognize and attack tumor cells. The study includes a clinical trial where these engineered cells are administered to children with neuroblastoma to assess their safety and effectiveness. Preliminary results suggest that this treatment is well-tolerated and shows promise in fighting the cancer.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are children diagnosed with neuroblastoma who have not responded to standard treatments.
Not a fit: Patients with other types of cancer or those who are not eligible for immunotherapy may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide a new and effective immunotherapy option for children with neuroblastoma.
How similar studies have performed: Other studies have shown promise in using CAR-T cell therapies for blood cancers, but this approach with CAR-NKTs in solid tumors like neuroblastoma is relatively novel.
Where this research is happening
Houston, United States
- Baylor College of Medicine — Houston, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Metelitsa, Leonid S — Baylor College of Medicine
- Study coordinator: Metelitsa, Leonid S
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.