Work

Improving T-cell engager efficacy in glioblastoma with multi-antigen targeting and novel delivery approaches

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: Glioblastoma remains a challenging disease to approach with immunotherapy due to pronounced antigen heterogeneity, immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment, and barriers to effective molecule delivery within the central nervous system. T-cell engagers provide an off-the-shelf approach to redirect endogenous T cells toward tumor cells. However, bispecific formats are constrained by intra- and interpatient antigen heterogeneity, which can limit therapeutic efficacy. In this review, we examine trispecific T-cell engagers (TriTEs) as an emerging strategy to address this limitation by simultaneously targeting multiple tumor-associated antigens. We discuss principles guiding antigen selection in glioblastoma, summarize available preclinical evidence supporting multispecific engagement, and outline key design considerations, including molecular architecture, stability, half-life extension, and safety optimization. We further review delivery strategies, such as gene-encoded expression, cellular carriers, and blood-brain barrier modulation, that may improve tumor access and the durability of TriTEs. Together, these considerations position TriTEs as a modular immunotherapy platform relevant to glioblastoma and other heterogeneous solid tumors.

Source: Acta Neuropathologica

DOI: 10.1007/s00401-026-03063-w

Authors: Arushi Tiwari, Kristen D. Pawlowski, Irina V. Balyasnikova

Institutions: Northwestern University, Robert H. Lurie Comprehensive Cancer Center of Northwestern University, University of Michigan, Michigan Medicine

Language: English

Topic: Glioma Diagnosis and Treatment

Subfield: Genetics

Field: Medicine

Domain: Health Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: hybrid

Estimated APC paid: $4,990