Cellular Immunotherapy of Childhood Cancers

The group is exploring cellular immune-targeting strategies based on genetic modification of cytotoxic immune effector cells (T cells, NK cells). The cells are gene-engineered to express chimeric antigen receptors (CARs) which link the antigen-binding domain of monoclonal antibodies to costimulatory and T cell signaling domains and thereby enable T cell activation in response to tumor-associated surface antigens. Novel target antigens in childhood cancers (Ewing sarcoma, osteosarcoma) are identified. To enhance efficacy of gene-engineered effector cells, we aim to understand in detail the immune-inhibitory microenvironment in solid cancers of childhood and adolescence, e.g. Ewing sarcomas and to identify adequate combination partners that overcome tumor immune escape. We are translating novel cellular therapeutics into clinical practice in early clinical trials.