Chimeric Antigen Receptor (CAR) T-cell therapy

Why in News?  In recent years, Chimeric Antigen Receptor (CAR) T-cell therapy has emerged as a groundbreaking treatment for patients suffering from aggressive blood cancers resistant to conventional therapies.

Relevance : UPSC Pre &  Mains

Prelims : Chimeric Antigen Receptor (CAR) T-cell therapy

Mains :   GS 3/Technology

What is CAR T-Cell Therapy?

Chimeric Antigen Receptor (CAR) T-cell therapy is an advanced immunotherapy that genetically engineers a patient’s T-cells (a type of immune cell) to target and destroy cancer cells or, in some cases, address autoimmune diseases. It has transformed treatment for certain blood cancers and is being explored for other conditions.

How it Works?

1. T-Cell Collection: T-cells are extracted from the patient’s blood via apheresis.
2. Genetic Modification: In a lab, T-cells are engineered to express a CAR, a synthetic receptor designed to recognize specific proteins (antigens) on cancer cells or other targets.
3. Expansion: Modified T-cells are multiplied to create a large population.
4. Infusion: The CAR T-cells are infused back into the patient, where they seek out and attack cells with the target antigen.
5. Immune Activation: CAR T-cells multiply in the body, enhancing the immune response against the disease.

      Applications:

• Blood Cancers: CAR T-cell therapy is FDA-approved for:

• • Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia (ALL): Particularly in children and young adults.
  • Diffuse Large B-Cell Lymphoma (DLBCL) and other non-Hodgkin lymphomas.
  • Multiple Myeloma: Targeting BCMA (B-cell maturation antigen).
  • Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia (CLL): In some refractory cases.