The ImmunoVerse™ CAR T Therapy and the Future of Cellular Treatments, ft. Dr. Fred Locke
Sep 25, 2025
Join Dr. Fred Locke, a pioneer in CAR T-cell therapy and Chair at Moffitt Cancer Center, as he shares his journey inspired by his father's battle with lymphoma. He discusses groundbreaking clinical trials ZUMA-1 and ZUMA-7, revealing how CAR T treatments are revolutionizing lymphoma care. Dr. Locke dives into the science behind CAR T technology, survival strategies against solid tumors, and innovative approaches like donor-derived therapies. Plus, learn how diet and exercise may enhance therapy outcomes, paving the way for outpatient care.
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Personal Spark From Father's Treatment
- Dr. Fred Locke's father had lymphoma and responded to a radiolabeled monoclonal antibody on a clinical trial.
- That personal experience inspired Locke to pursue immunotherapy and clinical research in cancer care.
Pivotal Trials Changed Lymphoma Care
- Dr. Fred Locke helped design and lead ZUMA-1 and ZUMA-7, pivotal trials that secured FDA approvals for CD19 CAR T in lymphoma.
- ZUMA-7 demonstrated a survival benefit in second-line lymphoma, a first in over 30 years.
How CAR T Cells Work In Practice
- CAR T therapy engineers a patient's T cells to target a tumor surface protein like CD19 and then reinfuses them after lymphodepleting chemotherapy.
- These cells expand after infusion and often mediate most anti-cancer activity within one to three months.