Infusions of T cells directed against specific antigens coupled with immune checkpoint blockade, may provide a paradigm shift in cancer immunotherapy. Chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T cell therapy is a new form of targeted immunotherapy that merges the targeting specificity of monoclonal antibodies with the potent cytotoxicity and long-term persistence provided by cytotoxic T cells. To date, CAR T cells have demonstrated success in eradicating hematological malignancies, specifically, CD19 CARS in leukemia (CD 19 is consistently expressed in leukemia).
How?
Roughly speaking, by genetically modifying T cells to express chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) genes, and transferring these new constructs into T cells, they are then directed toward tumour associated antigens.
Solid tumours?
Translating this success to solid malignancies remains elusive. The reason is not yet known but many scientists believe it is multifactorial. Unique barriers exist in solid tumours that are absent in hematological malignancies. Negative elements within solid tumours neutralize the function of antitumour cells, and CAR T cells specifically. However, the ability to genetically manipulate infused CAR T cells provides limitless opportunities that will translate into future developments.
