BYU Researchers Develop MOTO-CAR Cancer Therapy
Brigham Young University scientists are engineering immune cells to recognize and attack cancer cells, with lab tests showing a sharp reduction in lung cancer cells.
Updated on Nov. 1, 2026 in Cancer
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Brigham Young University researchers in Provo are developing MOTO-CAR, a technology that genetically engineers a patient's immune cells to attack cancer. In pre-clinical lab testing, aggressive lung cancer cells were reduced by 90% within 24 hours.
Why it matters
The approach aims to turn the body's own immune system against cancer, which could eventually offer an alternative or complement to surgery, chemotherapy and radiation. Researchers say more work is needed before human trials can begin.
The figures come from pre-clinical laboratory testing, showing a 90% reduction in aggressive lung cancer cells within 24 hours. Results in living patients remain unknown, as human trials have not yet begun.
The players
Kim O'Neill
Kim O'Neill is a professor of microbiology and molecular biology at Brigham Young University who is involved in developing the MOTO-CAR research.
Brigham Young University
Brigham Young University is a private research university in Provo, Utah, known for its research programs in the life sciences.
The details
MOTO-CAR works by genetically engineering a patient's immune cells so they recognize and attack cancer cells. The technology is designed to convert the body's own immune system into a cancer-fighting tool.
Timeline
Lab results showing a 90% reduction in aggressive lung cancer cells were recorded within 24 hours of testing.
Health Landscape
This research extends the engineered immune cell approach behind CAR-T cell therapy, which has already reached clinical use for certain blood cancers. Its pre-clinical results for lung cancer cells remain at an early laboratory stage.
If the approach advances, it could reduce reliance on surgery, chemotherapy or radiation for some patients. Researchers also expect it may eventually become more affordable for use around the world.
The takeaway
Engineered immune therapies are still at an early laboratory stage, so patients should rely on their own doctors for current treatment options. Progress will depend on results from future human trials.
Further reading
Explore more in Cancer coverage from the Provo area.
Source note: This article includes information reported by KSL.
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