A novel adapter-programmable hydrogel matrix for integrated CAR T cell manufacturing (CAR-AdMATRIX)

Focus:	Life Science Technologies Talents
Type of funding:	Individual funding programmes
Programme:	CZS research boost
Funded institution:	Reutlingen University

Prof. Dr. Jörg Mittelstät, Professor of Pharmaceutical Biotechnology at Reutlingen University, is researching programmable biomaterials in the "CAR-AdMATRIX" project to enable better and more cost-effective cancer therapy.

Goals

Cancer is one of the most common causes of death worldwide. Chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T cell therapy is a promising treatment method for certain types of cancer. However, its widespread use is limited, as the therapeutic cells are often unable to develop their effect in patients for long enough. The therapy is also very expensive and therefore not accessible to everyone. With the "CAR-AdMATRIX" project, Prof. Dr. Jörg Mittelstät aims to improve the immunological memory and effectiveness of CAR-T cells using a novel culture method. The aim is to develop a programmable matrix based on a hydrogel in order to simulate the physiological activation of T cells. The use of a single matrix for the stimulation, modification and cultivation of the cells drastically simplifies the production process. The aim of the planned development is to contribute to an improved and more cost-effective CAR-T cell therapy against cancer.