Gamma-Delta (__) T cells are a distinct subset of T cells based on variable chains in the T cell receptor (TCR) protein complex. Although only 1%-5% of circulating T cells are __ T cells, these cells are very abundant on the epithelial surface. __ T cells exhibit functional characteristics of the innate and adoptive immune systems by expressing cytotoxic receptors such as NKG2D, NKp30 and/or NKp44 and Toll-like receptors (TLRs). __ CARs work independently of the MHC, a function that distinguishes these cells from __ T cells. Furthermore, upon activation, __ T cells can act as professional antigen-presenting cells to activate CD8 __ T cells by cross-presenting tumor antigens. Given these characteristics, adoptive transfer of CAR-modified __ T cells may be a viable potential therapeutic option.

Our CAR __ T cells are engineered by incorporating a second-generation CAR into __ T cells using the non-viral Sleeping Beauty (SB) transposon or CAR lentiviral transduction technology. These CAR __ T cells are expected to enhance the tumor killing and expansion capabilities of unmodified __ T cells.