Scientists have developed a new approach to enhance T cell therapies for cholangiocarcinoma (CCA), a type of cancer that originates in the bile ducts. The researchers armed T cells, a type of immune cell, with a special molecule called a bispecific T cell engager (BTE) that targets a protein called integrin αvβ6 found on CCA cells. This BTE-armed T cell therapy has several advantages over existing CAR T cell therapies, including a simpler and less expensive production process.
In laboratory tests, the BTE-armed T cells effectively targeted and destroyed CCA cells while showing minimal activity against healthy cells. This new approach has the potential to improve treatment options for CCA, which currently has limited treatment options and a poor prognosis.
Funding
This work was supported by the Siriraj Research Fund of the Faculty of Medicine Siriraj Hospital, Mahidol University [R016334002]. Mutita Junking was supported by Siriraj Chalermphrakiat Grants. Kwanpirom Suwanchiwasiri was supported by The Science Achievement Scholarship of Thailand (SAST). Nattaporn Phanthaphol received support from the International Research Network (IRN5801PHDW03) and the British Council Women in STEM initiative. Mutita Junking, Chalermchai Somboonpatarakun, Jatuporn Sujjitjoon, Piriya Luangwattananun, and Pa-thai Yenchitsomanus are members of the Thailand Hub of Talents in Cancer Immunotherapy (TTCI). The academic endeavors of TTCI receive support from the National Research Council of Thailand (NRCT) [N35E660102].
Original Paper
Title of original paper: Bispecific T cell engager-armed T cells targeting integrin αvβ6 exhibit enhanced T cell redirection and antitumor activity in cholangiocarcinoma
Journal: Biomedicine & Pharmacotherapy
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.biopha.2024.116718
Correspondence
Nattaporn Phanthaphol ([email protected], [email protected])
Mutita Junking ([email protected], [email protected])