Modified T cells as therapeutic agents

Abstract

Immunotherapy is now a well-established modality in the treatment of cancer. Although several platforms to redirect the immune response exist, the use of genetically modified T cells has garnered particular attention in recent years. This is due, in large part, to their success in the treatment of B-cell malignancies. Adoptively transferred T cells have also demonstrated efficacy in the treatment of systemic viral infections that occur following hematopoietic cell transplantation prior to immune reconstitution. Here we discuss the techniques that enable redirection of T lymphocytes to treat cancer or infection and the current indications for these therapies.

Trial registration: ClinicalTrials.gov NCT03241940 NCT03330691 NCT03448393.

Conflict of interest statement

Nathan Singh holds several patents related to CAR and other engineered cell therapies.

Copyright © 2021 by The American Society of Hematology.

Figures

Graphical abstract

Figure 1.

Process of manufacturing CAR T cells.

Figure 2.

Process of manufacturing virus-specific cells.

Figure 3.

Currently enrolling CAR T cell trials across the globe.