Genetically modified cells injected into mouth lesions to stop cancer before it starts

NCT ID NCT07631013

First seen Jun 24, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026 · Updated 1 time

Summary

This early-phase trial tests whether specially engineered immune cells (NK cells) can safely treat high-risk precancerous spots in the mouth. The cells are injected directly into the lesions and are designed to target a protein called TROP2, while also resisting signals that normally shut them down. Up to 36 adults with widespread or multiple oral lesions will receive up to four injections over several weeks, with the main goal being safety and tolerability.

What this could mean

Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.

Active substance

engineered natural killer (NK) cells (TROP2-CAR/IL15 TGFBR2 KO NK cells)

What this could lead to

If successful, this could point toward a new way to treat or control high-risk oral lesions before they become cancer, potentially reducing the need for surgery.

What could go wrong

This is a very early Phase 1 trial with only 36 people, focused mainly on safety. The treatment may not shrink lesions or prevent cancer, and side effects from the engineered cells are unknown.

Disclaimer Read more

This is a summary of the original study . Summaries may miss details or leave out important information. Before applying or accepting participation, make sure you have read and understood the full study. Curemydisease.com takes no responsibility whatsoever for anything missed, misunderstood, or acted upon as a result of our summary — we know it does not capture everything.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

intraepithelial neoplasia oral mucosa leukoplakia squamous cell carcinoma

As listed by the trial registrant

The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.

Contacts and locations

Study contacts

  • Contact

    Phone: •••-•••-•••• Email: •••••@•••••

Locations

  • MD Anderson Cancer Center

    Houston, Texas, 77030, United States

    Contact Phone: •••-•••-•••• Email: •••••@•••••

    Contact