New cancer treatment approach could help immune cells fight tumors longer

Researchers at UCLA Health found that temporarily boosting the p53 protein helped specially prepared human T cells resist exhaustion and kill more melanoma cells in laboratory tests. The approach could potentially make some cell-based cancer treatments last longer, addressing a challenge in which T cells lose strength after repeatedly encountering cancer.

The researchers used the experimental drug navtemadlin during T-cell preparation. The results have not been tested in animals or people, and further work must examine other cancers and establish a safe dose: higher doses led to more T-cell deaths, while lower doses produced the desired effects. Researchers say clinical use is not imminent.