Researchers develop molecular GPS to target brain tumors with immune cells

Researchers at UCSF have developed a "molecular GPS" that directs immune cells to brain tumors, such as glioblastoma. This technology allows the immune cells to target cancer precisely while avoiding damage to healthy tissue, marking a significant improvement over traditional treatments. In mouse models, the engineered immune cells successfully eliminated glioblastoma tumors and reduced inflammation in multiple sclerosis. The cells are designed to activate only upon detecting specific proteins associated with brain cancer, enhancing their targeting ability. The scientists plan to advance this technology to human trials next year, potentially benefiting millions of patients with brain cancers and other neurological conditions. This approach represents a promising step toward more effective, personalized therapies.