CAR-T Therapy of Mesothelin Expressing Cancers

Division Of Basic Sciences - Nci

Investigators

Linked publications & trials

Abstract

We have continued our efforts to accumulate data to support the preclinical development of antibody 15B6 that reacts with mesothelin on cells but not shed mesothelin. We are working with Eureka Therapeutics to make their version of CART cells that should enter clinal trials this year at CCR NCI. We are also working with HCW Therapeutics to make a BiTe targeting mesothelin whose activity is enhanced by adding a cytokine such as IL15 to the BiTe. To make a CART like cell that can be used on all patients, we are collaborating with PLURI a company who makes MAIT cells. These immune cells are from the placenta and can be given to patients without inducing an immune response. To understand further how CART cells and BiTes kill tumor cells in an organism with a normal immune system we have developed mouse CART cells and BiTes that can be given to normal mice bearing mesothelin expressing mouse cancers. We have found that some of these cancers give a complete remission and some do not. We are comparing RNA expression in the sensitive and resistant tumors looking for changes that can explain this difference in response. We are also adding immune modulators to the mice with unresponsive tumors seeking an agent that can enhance the anti-tumor response.