Recent advances and discoveries in the mechanisms and functions of CAR T cells

Rebecca C Larson1,2, Marcela V Maus3,4

  • 1Cellular Immunotherapy Program, Cancer Center, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, USA.

Nature Reviews. Cancer
|January 23, 2021
PubMed

Insights

Recent advances in chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T cell therapy focus on efficacy and safety. New engineering strategies and targets are emerging for improved CAR T cell treatments and broader clinical applications.

Area of Science:

  • Immunology
  • Cellular Therapy
  • Biotechnology

Background:

  • Chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T cell therapy has revolutionized cancer treatment.
  • Understanding CAR T cell efficacy and safety has significantly evolved over the last three years.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review major advances in CAR T cell therapy over the past three years.
  • To discuss new insights into CAR molecular modules, toxicity, resistance, and future clinical applications.

Main Methods:

  • Literature review of recent scientific publications and clinical studies.
  • Analysis of molecular mechanisms influencing CAR T cell signaling and function.
  • Evaluation of novel engineering and pharmaceutical interventions.

Main Results:

  • Gained insights into how CAR molecular modules affect T cell signaling and function.
  • Identified mechanisms of CAR T cell toxicity and resistance.
  • Highlighted novel interventions to overcome challenges in CAR T cell therapy.

Conclusions:

  • The field is rapidly progressing with new targets and indications for CAR T cell therapy.
  • Future directions include advancements in manufacturing, allogeneic products, and drug-regulatable CAR T cells.

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