Author Spotlight: High-Throughput Screening of CAR T-Cell Constructs for Enhanced Cytotoxicity and Immunologic Memory

CAR T-cells are being constantly improved to achieve better responses in human clinical trials. We are identifying ways to evaluate this in our lab using an unbiased high throughput method, such as using fluorescent imaging to screen combinations that work best. There are several combinations of constructs that can be designed for any single chain variable fragment by modifying the geometry of the extracellular and hinge domains.

We have designed this protocol to identify the combinations with the best efficacy in eliminating target cells using Jurkat cells. This is a rapid, high throughput protocol to screen CAR constructs based on its target cell cytotoxicity using Jurkat cells, which are then validated with conventional T-cells. A dozen different CAR constructs can be tested in a 96-well plate simultaneously using this technique.

Here in Akhavan Lab, we quantify in absolute numbers the direct cyclosis of target cells by the CAR expressing Jurkat cells in a high throughput manner to screen multiple CAR constructs. Our laboratory's primary aim is to improve the clinical translation of CAR T-cell therapy against high grade brain tumors. We leverage high throughput drug screens as one modality to improve CAR T-cell cytotoxicity, as well as targeting the tumor microenvironment.