India's recent approval of CAR T-Cell therapy for cancer is a game-changer. The potential of this treatment is enormous, with major pharma companies investing in their own projects. But challenges like efficacy, costs, and neurotoxicity still exist. Join the discussion on the future of this life-saving therapy with industry experts on The Morning Brief podcast.
CAR T-cell therapy offers a beacon of hope for cancer, reprogramming T cells to target cancer cells.
Challenges of CART therapy include neurotoxicity, high costs, and ongoing research for improved efficacy.
Deep dives
CART Cell Therapy - A Breakthrough in Cancer Treatment
CART cell therapy, pioneered by Dr. Karl June, offers a revolutionary approach to fighting cancer. T cells are extracted from the patient, reprogrammed to target and eliminate cancer cells, and reintroduced into the body. This therapy, approved in India in 2023, represents a beacon of hope for cancer patients, with efficacy yet to be fully determined.
Immuno Act - Leading the Way in India
Immuno Act, founded by Dr. Rahul Purwar, is spearheading CART cell therapy in India. The organization's journey from academia to clinical trials culminated in receiving approval for CART therapy. Collaborations with top hospitals aim to make the treatment accessible and affordable, with plans to expand to government hospitals for wider reach.
Challenges and Future Prospects of CART Therapy
Despite its promising response rate of 70%, CART cell therapy faces challenges such as neurotoxicity and high costs. Efforts are underway to scale up production and reduce costs for wider accessibility. Future research aims to improve efficacy, expand to different types of cancers, and extend survival benefits to patients globally, offering a ray of hope in the fight against cancer.
Thejna John is a happy woman. Last year, the relapse of an acute form of blood cancer despite a bone marrow transplant, had made her doctors give up all hope.
In October, came a breakthrough. India approved the CAR T-Cell therapy, a revolutionary treatment for some forms of cancer. Thejna was one of the first cancer patients to undergo treatment in India. She is now cancer-free.
The potential of CAR T-cell therapy is significant. And Pharma majors from Dr Reddy’s to Biocon are pouring in money into their own CAR T-Cell projects. But it’s early days. And questions remain: on efficacy, relapse, neurotoxicity and high costs.
Join the conversation with host Anirban Chowdhury, Vikas Dandekar, ET's pharma expert, along with CAR T-Cell pioneer Dr. Hasmukh Jain, Associate Professor - Tata Memorial Centre, and Shirish Arya, Chief Business Officer - ImmunoACT as they discuss the future of this life-saving treatment on The Morning Brief podcast!