Ponatinib inhibits LCK and PI3K signaling and promotes CD8(+) T stem cell memory cell development
Repurposing a leukemia drug to strengthen CAR-T cell persistence could enhance immunotherapy outcomes for cancer patients.
Researchers discovered that ponatinib, a CML drug, promotes the formation of long-lived T stem cell memory cells by inhibiting LCK and PI3K pathways, and dramatically improves CAR-T cell persistence and antitumor activity. This repurposing approach could enhance adoptive cell therapy outcomes.
What the study was
- Study design
- Preclinical (in vitro + mouse models)
- Category
- Treatment Innovation
- Maturity
- Exploratory
- Journal
- Nature Communications
Why it surfaced
Highly novel mechanism for enhancing CAR-T therapy using an existing approved drug; limited by preclinical-only evidence but strong translational potential.
A plain-language summary of published research — not medical advice. Talk to a clinician about your own care.