GPC2-CAR T Cell Therapy for Brain Cancer
What You Need to Know Before You Apply
What is the purpose of this trial?
This trial aims to determine if GPC2-CAR T cell therapy is safe and effective for children and young adults with brain cancer that hasn't responded to other treatments. The therapy uses modified immune cells to target and attack cancer cells in the brain. Individuals diagnosed with specific types of brain tumors, such as medulloblastoma, whose cancer has returned or not responded to other therapies, might be suitable candidates for this trial. It is particularly for those who have tried other treatments without success and seek new options to control their disease. As a Phase 1 trial, the research focuses on understanding how the treatment works in participants, offering them the opportunity to be among the first to receive this innovative therapy.
Do I have to stop taking my current medications for the trial?
The trial requires a washout period (time without taking certain medications) for some treatments. You must wait at least 21 days or 5 half-lives after any prior systemic therapy, 28 days after bevacizumab, and 30 days after any investigational drug. Check with the trial team about your specific medications.
Is there any evidence suggesting that GPC2-CAR T cell therapy is likely to be safe for humans?
Research has shown that GPC2-CAR T cells have promising results in early studies. These studies indicate that these cells can effectively locate and attack cancer cells, particularly in cancers like neuroblastoma, which begins in nerve tissue. However, questions remain about how well individuals can tolerate these treatments.
In lab tests, GPC2-CAR T cells demonstrated a strong ability to fight tumors and remain active in the body for a significant period, which is beneficial for combating cancer. Since this trial is just beginning, the complete safety profile for humans is not yet known.
As this treatment is in the early trial phase, researchers are primarily focused on understanding its safety and potential side effects. This phase typically involves a small group of participants to gather safety information before testing on larger groups. While early results are promising, ongoing studies are crucial to determine the treatment's safety for patients.12345Why do researchers think this study treatment might be promising?
Unlike the standard treatments for brain cancer, such as surgery, radiation, and chemotherapy, GPC2-CAR T cell therapy uses a cutting-edge approach that harnesses the body's own immune system to fight cancer. This treatment works by genetically engineering a patient’s T cells to specifically target the GPC2 protein found on brain cancer cells. Researchers are excited because this method has the potential to directly attack cancer cells with precision and reduce damage to healthy brain tissue. Plus, the use of intracerebroventricular delivery allows these engineered cells to reach the brain more effectively, which could improve outcomes compared to traditional therapies.
What evidence suggests that GPC2-CAR T cells might be an effective treatment for brain cancer?
Research has shown that GPC2-CAR T cells have produced promising results in early lab studies for treating brain tumors like medulloblastoma. These specially designed cells target Glypican-2 (GPC2), a protein often found in these tumors. Initial studies suggest that these cells can effectively attack tumor cells, particularly when traditional treatments have failed. Although human studies have provided limited information so far, the mechanism of these cells suggests they could help combat cancer cells in the brain. This trial will further investigate the effectiveness of GPC2-CAR T cells in real-world situations. More studies are needed to confirm these findings.12567
Who Is on the Research Team?
Katherine Ryan, DO
Principal Investigator
Stanford University
Are You a Good Fit for This Trial?
This trial is for children and young adults with relapsed or refractory medulloblastoma or other CNS embryonal tumors. Participants must meet specific health criteria to be eligible, but the exact inclusion details are not provided here.Inclusion Criteria
Exclusion Criteria
Timeline for a Trial Participant
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Leukapheresis and Manufacturing
Participants undergo leukapheresis for collection of peripheral blood mononuclear cells to manufacture GPC2-CAR T cells
Lymphodepleting Chemotherapy
Participants receive lymphodepleting chemotherapy with fludarabine and cyclophosphamide
Treatment
Participants receive up to 8 cycles of intracerebroventricular GPC2-CAR T cell infusions
Follow-up
Participants are monitored for safety and effectiveness after treatment
What Are the Treatments Tested in This Trial?
Interventions
- GPC2-CAR T cells
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
Stanford University
Lead Sponsor