ROBO1-targeted CAR T cells show preclinical activity against pediatric solid tumors
Published in Biology, Drugs development & discovery, Immunology, Journals.
Published November 1, 2026.
A study published in Nature Communications on October 31 identifies ROBO1 as a candidate CAR T-cell target for several pediatric solid tumors.
Buhl and colleagues compared cell-surface proteins in patient-derived malignant rhabdoid tumor organoids and matched normal kidney organoids, integrating these measurements with gene-expression and protein data. ROBO1 showed strong, uniform expression across the evaluated rhabdoid tumors and other pediatric tumor types.
ROBO1-directed CAR T cells killed tumor cells in organoid co-cultures representing malignant rhabdoid tumors, rhabdomyosarcoma and neuroblastoma. In mice bearing malignant rhabdoid tumors, the engineered cells infiltrated tumors, induced regression and prolonged survival.
These are preclinical results, not evidence of benefit or safety in children. Normal-tissue toxicity, durability and clinical effectiveness still require appropriate evaluation. Patient-derived organoids are experimental models, even when they retain features of the original tumor.
The peer-reviewed accepted article remains subject to editorial changes. Earlier versions appeared as preprints in 2025. The authors report no competing interests.
Source: Buhl et al., Nature Communications, October 31, 2026.