Cancer
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Combining genome-engineered CAR-T cells and innate immune agonists for the treatment of gastrointestinal malignancies

Institution: Department of Medicine II, LMU University Hospital, Munich
Applicant: Dr. Ignazio Piseddu
Funding line:
First and Second Applications
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CAR-T cells are engineered immune cells designed to specifically target and destroy cancer cells. While they have shown great success in treating blood cancer, they face significant challenges in solid tumors. These challenges include limited penetration into the tumor and functional suppression by the tumor microenvironment. In this project, the researchers combine CAR-T cells with agents that stimulate the innate immune system, which could enhance the efficacy of CAR-T cells in solid tumor settings. This innovative approach will be tested in models that closely simulate the processes of the human immune system. The focus is on evaluating both the ability of this combination therapy to fight tumors and its safety in application. The ultimate goal is to develop a novel treatment option for patients with gastrointestinal tumors that are unresponsive to conventional therapies. This project has the potential to bring new hope to patients with these hard-to-treat cancers.