Chimeric antigen receptor T cell therapy in oncology - Pipeline at a glance: Analysis of the ClinicalTrials.gov...

Area of Science:

• Oncology
• Immunotherapy
• Clinical Trials

Background:

• The field of chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T-cell therapy is experiencing exponential growth in published data.
• Evaluating the landscape of CAR T-cell clinical trials is becoming increasingly complex.

Purpose of the Study:

• To systematically review and analyze the current global landscape of CAR T-cell therapy clinical trials in oncology.
• To identify key trends, targets, and geographical distribution of ongoing CAR T-cell research.

Main Methods:

• A comprehensive search of the ClinicalTrials.gov database was conducted for CAR T-cell therapy trials in oncology.
• Data were collected up to December 2019, including trial numbers, geographical distribution, cancer types, targets, CAR T-cell design, and sponsor information.

Main Results:

• 593 CAR T-cell trials were identified, with 48% from China and 39% from the USA.
• Hematologic malignancies comprised 63% of trials, with CD19 and BCMA as common targets. Solid tumors, including gastrointestinal, breast, and nervous system cancers, were also addressed, targeting mesothelin and CD171.
• Second-generation CAR T designs with CD28 or 41BB co-stimulation were predominant. Mixed sponsorship was common (45%), with limited exclusive industry funding (19%).

Conclusions:

• The CAR T-cell therapy field is dynamic, with significant ongoing clinical research.
• Projections indicate approximately 900 new CAR T-cell therapy trials between 2020-2025.
• A notable increase in trials investigating allogeneic cell products is anticipated in the next five years.