Development of CAR T cells targeting T-cell malignancies

Division Of Basic Sciences - Nci

Investigators

Linked publications & trials

Abstract

T cell lymphomas make up approximately 10% of non--Hodgkin lymphoma. Unlike B-cell lymphomas, there are not clearly effective CAR T-cell therapies for T-cell malignancies. The first steps of this project are already underway. We are attempting to find antibodies that specifically recognize the gamma-delta T-cell receptor. The gamma-delta T-cell receptor serves as a specific target for gamma-delta malignancies. The gamma-delta receptor is not expressed on human cells except for gamma-delta T cells, which make up 2-10% of total human T cells. After at least 1 specific antibody is identified for the gamma-delta T-cell receptor, we will design CARs, test the CARs in vitro, and then test the CARs in murine models. If an appropriate CAR can be identified, it will be tested in a phase I clinical trial. We are also starting preclinical studies to develop CARs against alpha-beta T-cell receptor-expressing malignancies.