Elimination of B cells in Systemic Lupus Erythematosus using an engineered γδ CAR T cell

Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is a complex autoimmune disease with no existing cure. In SLE, B cell, a type of immune cell, become abnormally activated and can contribute to both disease development and severity. This team has previously engineered novel CAR-T cells that were developed to eliminate B cells, thus modulating SLE pathology. The goal of this project is to evaluate the efficacy of this therapy both in cell culture and in a new model of humanized SLE in mice. If successful, this team will develop the first allogeneic CAR T cell therapy for the treatment of a rheumatic disease.