Entering a new era of tumor-infiltrating lymphocyte cell therapy innovation

The therapeutic potential of adoptive cell therapy using tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes (TIL) has been established in advanced melanoma. In February 2024, lifileucel became the first TIL cell therapy to be approved by the FDA and is indicated for adult patients with advanced melanoma. Although the benefit of TIL cell therapy is best characterized in patients with advanced melanoma, several trials are ongoing investigating its safety and efficacy in other solid tumor indications. Nevertheless, wider applicability and adoption of TIL cell therapy will require continued innovation to provide a safer and more efficacious cell therapy product. Several investigational TIL cell therapy products are in preclinical and early clinical development and are applying novel technologies to overcome key challenges. Herein, we summarize the current state of TIL cell therapy and highlight innovations that may reshape its future.