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    Cell Therapy for Metastatic Osteosarcoma

    In this study we will investigate the therapeutic potential of a type of white blood cell known as invariant natural killer T (iNKT) cells that are made from the blood of a healthy donor dog. iNKT cells are potent immune cells that kill cancer cells in mouse models and in some human cancer patients. In this study, we will use iNKT cells that express a cancer targeting receptor known as a chimeric antigen receptor (CAR). The CAR directs the modified iNKT cells to the cancer cells which are then killed. The CAR-iNKT cells also will further activate the patient’s own immune system to help kill the cancer cells. The purpose of this study is to determine the safety of CAR-iNKT cells, their maximum tolerated dose, how long they will remain in the patient and their effectiveness against bone cancer that has spread to the lungs. 

    Contact:

    Mary Beth Boland: mboland@vet.upenn.edu

    Location: University of Pennsylvania

    Study Type: Interventional

    Intervention: CAR iNKT cells

    Inclusion Criteria

    Dogs with a histopathological diagnosis of B7-H3+ appendicular osteosarcoma (the expression of the target protein B7H3, will be determined by the study team, who will perform immunohistochemistry on a portion of the archived tumor taken from the initial site in the leg either pre-amputation or at the time of amputation)

    Exclusion Criteria

    Potential Medical Benefits to Enrolled Animals 

    The overall goal is to see either stable disease or regression of established pulmonary metastatic osteosarcoma lesions.

    Potential Medical Risks to Enrolled Animals 

    Financial Incentives for Study Participants 

    Costs associated with treatment are covered.