Targeting multiple myeloma with BCMA-CAR NK cells expressing a GPRC5D-NKG2D bispecific antibody

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Grant Award Details

Grant Number:
TRAN1-14716
Investigator(s):
Human Stem Cell Use:
Award Value:
$6,036,001
Status:
Active

Grant Application Details

Application Title:

Targeting multiple myeloma with BCMA-CAR NK cells expressing a GPRC5D-NKG2D bispecific antibody

Public Abstract:
Translational Candidate

s15.BsAb.BCMA-CAR NK cells derived from CD34(+) umbilical cord blood hematopoietic stem cells

Area of Impact

patients with multiple myeloma

Mechanism of Action

s15.BsAb.BCMA-CAR NK cells are umbilical cord blood-derived CD34+ hematopoietic stem cells that are engineered to include two components of the BCMA-CAR and the anti-NKG2D-anti-GPRC5D BsAb. s15.BsAb.BCMA-CAR NK cells can launch dual targeting of both BCMA and GPRC5D antigens expressed on the surface of MM and produce two living agents, CAR NK cells and BsAb, to eradicate MM cells effectively.

Unmet Medical Need

Although BCMA-CAR T cells have been approved by the FDA, MM is still an incurable disease. BCMA-CAR T cells show good response, but most patients eventually relapse. Patients treated with BCMA CAR-T cells experience cytokine release syndrome (CRS) and neurotoxicity.

Project Objective

Complete Pre-IND submission and finalize IND plans

Major Proposed Activities

  • Manufacture s15.BsAb.BCMA-CAR NK cells and PK/PD study
  • Pharmacology toxicity and optimize treatment schedule of s15.BsAb.BCMA-CAR NK cells in efficacy testing
  • Confirm efficacy of s15.BsAb.BCMA-CAR NK cells under optimized and safe conditions and Pre-IND submission
Statement of Benefit to California:
In the United States, the lifetime risk of getting multiple myeloma is 1 in 132 (0.76%). For 2022 in the United States alone, the American Cancer Society's estimates about 34,470 new cases of multiple myeloma will be diagnosed. Blacks may be twice as likely as whites to develop multiple myeloma. Our goal is to develop an “off-the-shelf,” ready-to-use cell therapy that is appropriate and easily accessible for any patient regardless of race, ethnicity, age, or socioeconomic status.