NK Cells + Chemotherapy for Blood Cancers
Trial Summary
What is the purpose of this trial?
The goal of this clinical research study is to learn about the safety of giving immune cells called natural killer (NK) cells with chemotherapy to patients with leukemia, lymphoma, or multiple myeloma. Immune system cells (such as NK cells) are made by the body to attack foreign or cancerous cells. Researchers think that NK cells you receive from a donor may react against cancer cells in your body, which may help to control the disease.
Will I have to stop taking my current medications?
The trial protocol allows patients to continue certain medications like Hydroxyurea and tyrosine kinase inhibitors until shortly before starting the trial treatment. However, other anti-cancer agents and investigational drugs must be stopped. It's best to discuss your specific medications with the trial team.
What data supports the effectiveness of the treatment CAR.70/IL15-transduced CB-NK cells for blood cancers?
Research shows that cord blood-derived NK cells engineered to express IL-15 and a chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) can effectively kill cancer cells and prolong survival in animal models, suggesting potential for treating blood cancers. Additionally, a study found that using cord blood-derived NK cells as maintenance therapy after stem cell transplantation improved patient outcomes, indicating their promise in reducing relapse rates and enhancing survival.12345
Is the combination of NK cells and chemotherapy safe for treating blood cancers?
Research shows that NK cells engineered with CAR technology, like CAR.70/IL15-transduced CB-NK cells, have been used safely in humans, with only mild infusion reactions reported in some cases. These cells do not cause graft-versus-host disease (a condition where donor cells attack the recipient's body) and have built-in safety measures to limit toxicity.12567
How is the treatment with CAR.70/IL15-transduced CB-NK cells different from other treatments for blood cancers?
This treatment uses engineered natural killer (NK) cells from cord blood, which are modified to express IL-15 and a chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) targeting CD19, allowing them to effectively attack cancer cells without causing graft-versus-host disease (GVHD), a common issue with other cell therapies. Unlike traditional CAR-T cell therapies, this approach offers an 'off-the-shelf' solution that is easier to produce and administer, potentially improving accessibility and reducing costs.128910
Research Team
David Marin
Principal Investigator
M.D. Anderson Cancer Center
Eligibility Criteria
Adults aged 18-75 with certain blood cancers (like leukemia, lymphoma) that have a specific marker called CD70. They must be at least 3 weeks out from their last chemotherapy, have good organ function, and not be pregnant or fathering a child. Participants need to use effective birth control during the study and for three months after.Inclusion Criteria
Exclusion Criteria
Timeline
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Lymphodepleting Chemotherapy
Participants receive lymphodepleting chemotherapy with Cyclophosphamide and Fludarabine phosphate
CAR-NK Cell Treatment
Participants receive a single flat dose of CAR.70/IL15-transduced CB-NK cells
Follow-up
Participants are monitored for safety and effectiveness after treatment
Treatment Details
Interventions
- CAR.70/IL15-transduced CB-NK cells
- Cyclophosphamide
- Fludarabine phosphate
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
M.D. Anderson Cancer Center
Lead Sponsor