University Researchers Develop CAR T Therapy Candidate for Solid Tumour Treatment

Researchers from the University of Calgary and McMaster University have developed a novel CAR T cell therapy approach targeting treatment-resistant solid tumours.

The research team identified a unique cancer marker present in a specific group of solid tumours and used this discovery to design an experimental therapy called GCAR1.

The therapy uses Chimeric Antigen Receptor T (CAR T) technology to modify a patient’s immune cells, enabling them to recognise and destroy cancer cells more effectively. 
Early preclinical and clinical studies have shown encouraging results in sarcoma and other challenging cancer types.

Researchers from McMaster University also validated the approach in animal models of an aggressive brain cancer, supporting its broader therapeutic potential.

The programme was strengthened through collaboration between academic institutions, healthcare organisations and biomanufacturing partners across Canada. 

Boreal Biomanufacturing, part of The Ottawa Hospital, supported the production of viral materials required for CAR T cell engineering, while BC Cancer contributed essential resources for the manufacturing process.

The findings highlight the growing potential of engineered immune cell therapies in addressing complex solid tumours and advancing personalised cancer treatment strategies.