Drug resistant CAR Tregs to promote transplant tolerance

Solid organ transplantation is often the last treatment option for people whose kidneys, liver, lungs, or heart are failing. Unfortunately, the long-term success of organ transplantation is limited by the delicate balance between the risk of organ rejection and the serious side effects caused by anti-rejection drugs. To improve transplant outcomes, we have developed a new treatment approach using engineered immune cells called “CAR Tregs.” In early tests using mice, CAR Tregs have been shown to help extend the life of transplanted skin, and heart. In human transplant patients, CAR Tregs will need to be tested alongside traditional anti-rejection drugs, which work by blocking the normal function of all immune cells, including CAR Tregs. My research aims to engineer CAR Tregs to be resistant to the negative effects of anti-rejection drugs, so they can work together with anti-rejection drugs to better prevent organ rejection while using lower doses of drugs. The findings from my research will inform the design of future CAR Treg clinical trials with the ultimate goal of improving the quality of life for transplant recipients through the reduced need for harmful medications.