Welcome to the Okada Lab at UCSF

 

The Okada Lab is in the Helen Diller Family Comprehensive Care Center at the UCSF Mission Bay campus in the Department of Neurological Surgery. Our lab works to develop novel immunotherapy strategies for patients with brain tumors, and investigates immune mechanisms mediating responses and resistance to immunotherapy.

 

hippocampus
SynNotch CAR-T cells Targeting Glioblastoma

To combat glioblastoma, a deadly primary brain tumor, we have developed synNotch CAR-T cells to ensure both high efficiency and safety in treatment. Recently, we obtained FDA approval, and preparations for a clinical trial are underway.

(Under construction) >
astrocytes
Immunosuppression Induced by Glioma Neuronal Circuit Remodeling

Through the analysis of single-cell RNA-seq data from patient tumors, we identified significant regional immunosuppression associated with glioma neuronal circuit remodeling. Subsequent preclinical investigations revealed a previously unrecognized immunosuppression mechanism.

(Under construction) >
Human glioblastoma derived tumor in mouse brain
Low-Intensity Pulsed Ultrasound to Augment Cancer Immunotherapy in Glioma

Low-intensity pulsed ultrasound combined with the application of microbubbles allows non-invasive, transient opening of the blood-brain barrier (BBB), potentially enhancing the efficacy of immune cell therapies.

(Under construction) >
Human glioblastoma derived tumor in mouse brain
Discovery of Alternative Splicing-Derived Neoantigens in Glioma

It is crucial to expand the repertoire of antigens so that more patients who are otherwise ineligible for currently available therapeutic options can benefit, increasing the chances of treatment success. We have investigated tumor-specific alternative splicing events in glioma as a potential source of untapped neoantigens.

(Under construction) >