Generation of CD70 Knockout NK Cells and the Use of CD70 as the Integration Site for Overcoming CD70-CAR Mediated FratricideThe IP revolves around the development of CD70 knockout natural killer (NK) cells and their integration with CD70 chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) technology to overcome fratricide—a phenomenon where CAR-expressing NK cells attack each other. This method employs gene editing techniques like CRISPR and AAV to target the CD70 gene and integrate CAR constructs into the CD70 locus of NK cells. The IP aims to enhance the effectiveness of CAR-NK cell therapy, particularly in the context of CD70-positive tumors. By eliminating CD70 expression in NK cells and simultaneously integrating CAR constructs into the CD70 locus, it mitigates fratricide, thereby enhancing the survival and functionality of engineered NK cells in the tumor microenvironment. Unlike existing methods, which may suffer from fratricide when CAR-NK cells target antigens present on their own surface, the IP offers a unique solution by leveraging the CD70 gene as an integration site for CARs. This strategy not only overcomes fratricide but also enhances the specificity and potency of CAR-NK cells, potentially leading to improved therapeutic outcomes. The IP holds promise for various cancer types, including glioblastoma, T cell lymphomas, and B cell malignancies, where CD70 expression is prevalent. Additionally, the modular nature of CAR-NK cells allows for customization to target different antigens, broadening its application across diverse malignancies. The market for personalized cancer treatments continues to grow, making this technology highly attractive for commercialization. The IP has demonstrated successful generation and functionality of CD70 knockout/CD70 CAR-NK cells, progressing from conceptualization to proof of concept. Further development involves characterization and optimization of these engineered NK cells for clinical translation. |
![]() Tech ID2022-056 College(None) Licensing ManagerInventorsCategories(None) |