T cell engagers emerge as a compelling therapeutic modality

Area of Science:

• Immunology
• Oncology
• Pharmacology

Background:

• T cell engagers (TCEs) are antibody-based therapies reprogramming cytotoxic T lymphocytes.
• 12 TCEs approved by FDA and EMA, treating hematologic malignancies and solid tumors.
• Over 150 TCEs in clinical trials, including for autoimmune diseases.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review learnings from 12 approved T cell engagers.
• To analyze molecular designs, biochemical characteristics, and clinical data of approved TCEs.
• To discuss targets, indications, dosing, side effects, and efficacy of TCEs.

Main Methods:

• Review of 12 approved T cell engagers (TCEs).
• Analysis of clinical data including targets, indications, dosing, schedules, side effects, and efficacy.
• Discussion of molecular designs and biochemical characteristics.

Main Results:

• A wide variety of molecular designs and biochemical characteristics are suitable for approved TCEs.
• Nine TCEs treat hematologic malignancies; three target solid tumors.
• Emerging efficacy in solid tumors and autoimmune diseases.

Conclusions:

• TCEs demonstrate high flexibility in design and target selection.
• Scalability and high response rates in hematologic malignancies are key advantages.
• TCEs represent an attractive therapeutic modality with broad applicability.