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Project

Immune effector cell therapy for hematological malignancies with a focus on acute myeloid leukemia and multiple myeloma.

Acute myeloid leukemia (AML) and multiple myeloma (MM) are two types of blood cancers with a high unmet therapeutic need. The knowledge that cells of our immune system can recognize and kill cancer cells has laid the foundation for immune effector cell (IEC) therapy. This involves the infusion of immune cells that are "armored" outside the body with a T-cell receptor (TCR) or a chimeric antigen receptor (CAR). Such TCR- or CAR-loaded immune cells can execute a targeted attack against cancer cells. The aim of the present project is to improve the therapeutic efficacy of IEC therapy for AML and MM, while reducing the risk of side effects and costs of treatment. More specifically, immune cells will be weaponed with AML-directed TCRs or MM-directed CARs via a technique called electroporation. This involves the application of an electrical pulse to the cells, making temporary holes in their surface and enabling their loading with the TCR or CAR. When compared to the current IEC therapies, this novel procedure will allow for the generation of IECs with reduced costs, improved safety profile and enhanced anti-tumor activity. It is therefore expected that this research project will make an important contribution to the development of the next-generation IEC products for AML and MM.
Date:1 Oct 2019 →  Today
Keywords:T CYTOTOXIC LYMPHOCYTE
Disciplines:Hematology, Cancer therapy, Medicinal products not elsewhere classified