Refining a technology which genetically modifies immune cells to treat cancer
Background
Immune cells that have been genetically modified to include new, cancer-fighting genes can be used to cure cases of leukaemia that are otherwise incurable. However, the technology used to make these immune cells is unable to introduce the more complex genes needed to cure other types of cancer. A new technology, called the PiggyBac system has the ability to make these complex genetic changes, but it has not been adapted for clinical use.
The research
The researchers will optimise the PiggyBac system so that it is ready for use in clinical trials. The team will also develop a new system, called PiggyBat, to provide researchers with a choice of established tools that can be used to create cancer-fighting cells.
The impact
This will ensure the availability of this technology into the future.