What is CAR T Cell Therapy?
Chimeric Antigen Receptor (CAR) T cell therapy is a groundbreaking form of
immunotherapy that harnesses the patient's own immune system to fight cancer. This innovative treatment involves modifying a patient's T cells to express a receptor specific to cancer cells. Once these engineered T cells are reintroduced into the patient’s body, they can directly target and destroy cancer cells.
T Cell Collection: T cells are collected from the patient’s blood through a process known as
leukapheresis.
Genetic Modification: In the laboratory, these T cells are genetically engineered to express chimeric antigen receptors (CARs) on their surface. These CARs are designed to recognize and bind to specific
antigens on the surface of cancer cells.
Multiplication: The modified T cells are then multiplied to reach a sufficient number for therapy.
Infusion: The engineered T cells are infused back into the patient’s bloodstream, where they seek out and kill cancer cells.
Targeted Action: The therapy specifically targets cancer cells, sparing healthy cells and reducing collateral damage.
Durable Response: In some cases, patients have experienced long-lasting remissions.
Personalized Treatment: As the therapy uses the patient’s own cells, it is highly personalized.
Cytokine Release Syndrome (CRS): This is a common and potentially life-threatening side effect characterized by high fever and flu-like symptoms, resulting from a large, rapid release of cytokines into the blood.
Neurotoxicity: Some patients may experience neurological side effects such as confusion, seizures, or loss of consciousness.
Infections: Due to the intensive nature of the therapy, patients may be at increased risk of infections.
Who Is Eligible for CAR T Cell Therapy?
Eligibility for CAR T cell therapy depends on several factors, including the type and stage of cancer, the patient’s overall health, and previous treatments. Typically, it is considered for patients who have not responded to conventional therapies or have relapsed after initial treatment.
Pre-Treatment: Patients may undergo chemotherapy to reduce the number of existing T cells and make space for the new, engineered T cells.
Infusion: The CAR T cells are infused into the patient’s bloodstream, usually through an intravenous (IV) line.
Post-Treatment Monitoring: Patients are closely monitored for side effects and to assess the effectiveness of the therapy.
Conclusion
CAR T cell therapy represents a significant advancement in the field of cancer treatment. While it offers hope for patients with certain types of cancer, it also comes with challenges that need to be addressed through continued research and clinical trials.
