Adoptive cell therapy for solid tumors: Chimeric antigen receptor T cells and beyond

Area of Science:

• Immunology
• Oncology
• Cell Therapy

Background:

• Chimeric antigen receptor T cell therapy has revolutionized hematological cancer treatment.
• Significant antitumor activity against solid tumors remains a challenge for current adoptive cell therapy (ACT) approaches.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the current status of T cell-based adoptive cell therapy for solid tumors.
• To summarize investigational strategies aimed at enhancing T cell efficacy in solid tumor treatment.

Main Methods:

• Review of current literature on T cell-based adoptive cell therapy for solid tumors.
• Analysis of emerging strategies including modified T cell receptors, tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes, and novel cell engineering techniques.

Main Results:

• Modified T cell receptors targeting tumor-associated antigens show activity in synovial sarcoma.
• Tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes demonstrate clinical activity in metastatic cervical cancer and melanoma.
• Several strategies are under investigation to improve ACT for solid tumors.

Conclusions:

• While ACT has transformed hematological cancer therapy, its application in solid tumors requires further optimization.
• Investigational strategies like local delivery, advanced CAR T cells, off-the-shelf T cells, and neoantigen-directed cells hold potential for improving solid tumor treatment outcomes.