West LA Times

A recent study conducted by researchers at the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) has unveiled a groundbreaking advancement in immune cell screening that could have significant implications for targeting prostate cancer. The findings, published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, showcase a new method for screening T cells, a crucial component of the body's immune system, to identify receptors that are essential for effective cell-based treatments.

Through this innovative screening process, the researchers identified three previously unknown T-cell receptors that specifically target prostate cancer. These receptors were found to be highly effective in eliciting a response against cancer cells, with a rate of functional T-cell receptors approximately ten times higher than traditional techniques. The study's lead author, Dr. Owen Witte, emphasized the importance of these findings, stating, "The three never-before-seen receptors for prostate cancer found in this research could ultimately lead to new tumor-fighting immunotherapies."

The research team utilized nanovials, microscopic hydrogel containers developed at UCLA, to isolate and analyze individual T cells. These nanovials, commercially available from Partillion Bioscience, were instrumental in identifying T cells that not only bind to disease-related targets but also secrete molecules that trigger an immune response. This capability holds promise for uncovering additional disease-targeting receptors and developing novel cellular therapies for cancer patients.

Dr. Dino Di Carlo, another key figure in the study, highlighted the significance of the technology employed, stating, "Applying technology for sorting single cells and capturing their secretions, UCLA researchers are developing a method to quickly screen T cells for potency in targeting a protein specific to prostate tumor cells."

The discovery of these unique T-cell receptors represents a significant step forward in the field of immunotherapy, particularly in the context of cancer treatment. With the potential to revolutionize the development of targeted immunotherapies, this research paves the way for more effective and personalized treatments for prostate cancer patients.