Second CAR-T study now open and recruiting at GOSH
- amanda0955
- Mar 21
- 2 min read
CAR-T study targeting IL-13RA2 for paediatric-type diffuse high-grade gliomas including diffuse midline glioma
Introduction and Key Funding
Abbie's Army is pleased to announce the opening of ‘GLIMPS’ a clinical trial using CAR-T cell therapy for PDHGG and DMG brain cancers.
This £1.48 million trial, co-funded with the Jon Moulton Charity Trust, will provide 12 patients in the UK with access to the latest and most innovative treatment available.
The trial is a single centre study, taking place at Great Ormond Street Hospital in London, UK.
Principal Investigators
Dr. Karin Straathof: Associate Professor in Tumour Immuno-oncology, UCL Cancer Institute and honorary consultant paediatric oncology (GOSH)
Prof Darren Hargrave: Clinical Professor of Paediatric Neuro-oncology (GOSH)
Research and Clinical Application
This clinical trial will be the first 'in-child' use of CAR-T cell therapy in the UK, targeting the antigen IL-13RA2 for children with high grade diffuse glioma and diffuse midline gliomas.
The trial is the second CAR-T technology application for children with brain cancer, following ‘CARMIGO' a clinical trial for DMG's targeting GD2 on the outside of DMG cancer cells, that began in September 2023, also co-funded by Abbie's Army.
Development of New Treatment for PDHGG including DMG
Of childhood brain tumours, about 10% are high-grade gliomas. Paediatric high-grade gliomas (pHGG) account for 40% of deaths due to brain tumours in children. Treatment is limited with surgery only possible if the tumour is not in delicate parts of the brain. Radiotherapy can stop tumour growth but the tumour will inevitably grow again.
Chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T cells are blood cells genetically engineered to recognize and kill tumour cells.
Sustained complete remissions have been achieved in leukaemia and encouraging results in non-blood cancers are emerging. Early clinical data suggests CAR T cell therapy can be effective in glioma.
Researchers have developed CAR T cells that recognize IL-13RA2 (Interleukin 13 receptor subunit alpha 2) present on glioma cells.
The CAR T cells have also been engineered to secrete IL-15 (interleukin 15) to help the CAR T cells persist in the body. The study aims to test whether giving CAR T cells to PDHGG and DMG patients is safe, what is the best dose and the optimal way to give the cells.
Role of Abbie’s Army in Funding
Abbie’s Army is co-funding this crucial clinical trial, ensuring UK children have access to cutting-edge treatments. The charity expresses deep gratitude to its donors and partner DIPG families, whose contributions have made this vital work possible.
Stand with Us to Find a Cure for DIPG
Abbie’s Army is fighting for a future where DIPG no longer steals young lives. Your donation fuels the research needed to find a cure and helps us bring hope to families facing this tragic disease. Join our fight—donate now and make a difference.
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