Grant Award Details

CAR T cells targeting abnormal N-glycans for the treatment of refractory/metastatic solid cancers
Grant Number: 
DISC2-13507
Project Objective: 
  • To optimize a ‘Glycan-dependent T cell Recruiter’ (GlyTR)1-CAR T cell therapy for refractory / recurrent / metastatic solid cancers, that is agnostic to tumor type but requires high expression of β1,6GlcNAc-branched N-glycan target (autologous product).
Investigator: 
Disease Focus: 
Cancer
Solid Tumors
Human Stem Cell Use: 
Somatic Cell
Award Value: 
$1,414,800
Status: 
Active

Grant Application Details

Application Title: 
  • CAR T cells targeting abnormal N-glycans for the treatment of refractory/metastatic solid cancers
Public Abstract: 

Research Objective

Develop genetically modified chimeric antigen receptor T cells to kill incurable solid cancers by targeting a previously un-targetable tumor associated carbohydrate antigen.

Impact

Refractory/metastatic solid cancers are almost always incurable and have limited therapeutic options. Directing the immune system to kill cancer cells provides an unprecedented new approach.

Major Proposed Activities

  • Engineer and optimize a genetically modified chimeric antigen receptor T cell that targets a tumor associated carbohydrate antigen with high sensitivity and specificity.
  • Confirm the ability of the engineered CAR-T cells to kill diverse solid cancer cells.
  • Assess the ability of the engineered CAR-T cells to kill glioblastoma cells, a highly deadly brain cancer.
  • Assess the risk of toxicity to normal tissue from the engineered CAR-T cells.
Statement of Benefit to California: 

The citizens of California will benefit from this proposal through development of a new and potent therapy for relapsed/metastatic solid cancers that are incurable and lack effective therapies. The California economy will also benefit from this project through creation and maintenance of bio-tech jobs and the potential to export the therapy worldwide. This project will also further California's international reputation as a global leader in innovation and bio-tech.