New Protein Discovery Could Enhance CAR T-Cell Therapy for Cancer Treatment
A single protein may be holding back CAR T cancer therapy
Science Daily
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Researchers from Columbia University and University Hospital Tübingen have identified a protein, NFIL3, that hinders the effectiveness of CAR T-cell therapy. Disabling NFIL3 allows these engineered immune cells to remain potent longer, improving their ability to combat tumors, particularly solid tumors that are challenging to treat.
- 01NFIL3 contributes significantly to CAR T-cell exhaustion, diminishing their cancer-fighting capabilities over time.
- 02Disabling NFIL3 using CRISPR/Cas9 technology resulted in CAR T cells that were more effective at tumor control and prolonged survival in mouse models.
- 03The study was led by Prof. Michel Sadelain from Columbia University and Prof. Judith Feucht from University Hospital Tübingen.
- 04The findings were published in the journal Cancer Discovery, highlighting a potential advancement in CAR T-cell therapy.
- 05This research aims to enhance the effectiveness of CAR T cells against solid tumors, which have been less responsive to current therapies.
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A recent study from researchers at Columbia University and University Hospital Tübingen has identified a protein called NFIL3 as a major factor limiting the effectiveness of CAR T-cell therapy, particularly against solid tumors. CAR T-cell therapy, which involves modifying a patient's immune cells to target cancer, has shown success in treating blood cancers but struggles with solid tumors. The researchers found that NFIL3 causes CAR T cells to become exhausted and lose functionality over time. By disabling this protein using CRISPR/Cas9 technology, the CAR T cells exhibited prolonged activity and improved tumor-fighting capabilities in animal models. Prof. Michel Sadelain, a pioneer in CAR T-cell therapy, and Prof. Judith Feucht, who combines research with clinical care, led this study. Their findings, published in Cancer Discovery, suggest that targeting NFIL3 could significantly enhance CAR T-cell therapy and expand its application to a broader range of cancers, potentially improving patient outcomes.
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The discovery of NFIL3's role in CAR T-cell exhaustion could lead to improved cancer treatments, particularly for patients with solid tumors.
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