Immunotherapy

A protein called NFIL3 has been identified as a key factor in reducing the long-term performance of CAR T cells used in cancer treatment. Researchers showed that disabling this protein allows the engineered cells to remain active longer and fight tumors more effectively in laboratory models.

May 25, 2026 Reported by AI Fact checked

Researchers at McGill University report a drug-based method to temporarily enhance natural killer (NK) cells—an immune cell type—by inhibiting two proteins, improving the cells’ ability to attack several aggressive cancers in preclinical experiments.

Scientists at KAIST in South Korea have developed a novel therapy that transforms a tumor's own immune cells into potent cancer fighters directly inside the body. By injecting lipid nanoparticles into tumors, the treatment reprograms macrophages to produce cancer-recognizing proteins, overcoming barriers in solid tumor treatment. Early animal studies show promising reductions in tumor growth.

January 28, 2026 Reported by AI

Researchers in Japan have uncovered how cancer cells use tiny vesicles to spread the immune-suppressing protein PD-L1, explaining why immunotherapy often fails. A protein called UBL3 directs this process, but common statins can disrupt it, potentially boosting treatment effectiveness. The findings, from patient samples and lab tests, suggest a simple way to improve outcomes for lung cancer patients.

Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory researchers report that engineered anti-uPAR CAR T cells cleared senescence-linked cells in mice, improving intestinal regeneration, reducing inflammation and strengthening gut barrier function. The approach also aided recovery from radiation-related intestinal injury and showed regenerative signals in experiments using human intestinal and colorectal cells, raising the possibility of future clinical trials.

December 23, 2025 Reported by AI

Researchers from MIT and Stanford University have developed multifunctional molecules called AbLecs to block sugar-based immune checkpoints on cancer cells. This approach aims to enhance immunotherapy by allowing immune cells to better target tumors. Early tests in cells and mice show promising results in boosting anti-tumor responses.