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Dynamic Imaging of Chimeric Antigen Receptor T Cells with [18F]Tetrafluoroborate Positron Emission Tomography/Computed Tomography
Published on: February 17, 2022
Dynamic imaging for CAR-T-cell therapy
Nia Emami-Shahri1, Sophie Papa2
1ImmunoEngineering Group, Division of Cancer Studies, King's College London, London SE1 9RT, U.K.
Abstract:
Chimaeric antigen receptor (CAR) therapy is entering the mainstream for the treatment of CD19(+)cancers. As is does we learn more about resistance to therapy and the role, risks and management of toxicity. In solid tumour CAR therapy research the route to the clinic is less smooth with a wealth of challenges facing translating this, potentially hugely valuable, therapeutic option for patients. As we strive to understand our successes, and navigate the challenges, having a clear understanding of how adoptively transferred CAR-T-cells behavein vivoand in human trials is invaluable. Harnessing reporter gene imaging to enable detection and tracking of small numbers of CAR-T-cells after adoptive transfer is one way by which we can accomplish this. The compatibility of certain reporter gene systems with tracers available routinely in the clinic makes this approach highly useful for future appraisal of CAR-T-cell success in humans.
Insights
Reporter gene imaging allows tracking of Chimaeric Antigen Receptor (CAR)-T-cells in vivo. This method aids in understanding CAR T-cell therapy successes and challenges for future clinical applications.
Area of Science:
- Immunotherapy
- Oncology
- Medical Imaging
Background:
- Chimaeric Antigen Receptor (CAR) T-cell therapy is a promising treatment for CD19(+) cancers.
- Challenges remain in translating CAR T-cell therapy for solid tumors.
- Understanding CAR T-cell behavior in vivo is crucial for clinical success.
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore the utility of reporter gene imaging for tracking CAR T-cells.
- To assess the feasibility of using clinically available tracers for CAR T-cell monitoring.
Main Methods:
- Utilizing reporter gene imaging systems to detect and track adoptively transferred CAR T-cells.
- Evaluating the compatibility of reporter gene systems with routine clinical tracers.
Main Results:
- Reporter gene imaging enables detection and tracking of small numbers of CAR T-cells post-transfer.
- The compatibility of certain reporter gene systems with clinical tracers enhances applicability.
Conclusions:
- Reporter gene imaging is a valuable tool for monitoring CAR T-cell therapy in vivo.
- This imaging approach can facilitate the clinical appraisal of CAR T-cell efficacy and safety.

