Chimeric T cell receptors for preventing antibody-mediated rejection of transplants
This technology is a targeted, engineered cell therapy designed to selectively eliminate donor-specific antibody-producing B cells and plasma cells to prevent antibody-mediated rejection of solid organs and stem cell transplants.
Unmet Need: Durable prevention of antibody-mediated transplant rejection
During allogenic transplantation, a major cause of graft failure is antibody-mediated rejection driven by donor-specific antibodies produced by recipient B cells and plasma cells. Current standard-of-care strategies, including plasmapheresis and broad immunosuppressive regimens, offer only temporary and incomplete control, often requiring repeated interventions and increasing the risk of infection and toxicity. These approaches do not selectively eliminate the underlying antibody-producing cells, allowing continued or recurrent antibody production. There is a critical need for more durable, targeted strategies that address the root causes of donor-specific antibody generation to improve long-term graft survival and patient outcomes.
The Technology: Engineered CAR T therapy to prevent antibody rejection
This technology is a cell-based immunotherapy designed to selectively target and reduce the immune cells that produce donor-specific antibodies in transplant recipients. It employs genetically engineered T cells that recognize markers expressed on B cells and plasma cells, enabling targeted depletion of antibody-producing populations while sparing unrelated tissues. The engineered signaling domain is modified to slow signaling, aiming to reduce premature T cell exhaustion and support sustained functional activity over time. By focusing on the cellular source of donor-specific antibodies, this approach aims to provide longer-lasting control compared to transient antibody removal or broad immunosuppression.
Applications:
- Treatment for patients with antibody-mediated autoimmune diseases
- Cell therapy for patients receiving organ or stem cell transplants
- Immunotherapy for cancer treatment
- Research model for studying T cell signaling and function
- Tool to further optimize CAR T cell therapies based on patient diagnosis and personal medical needs
Advantages:
- Provides targeted depletion of antibody-producing cells
- Offers the potential for more durable control
- Minimizes systemic immunosuppression
- Incorporates modified signaling to reduce T cell exhaustion
- Improves long-term graft protection
Lead Inventor:
Patent Information:
Patent Pending (WO/2026/035716)
Tech Ventures Reference:
IR CU24372
Licensing Contact: Jerry Kokoshka