Researchers from the Universities of Geneva, Lausanne, and the Geneva and Vaud University Hospitals in Switzerland have discovered a way to extend the functionality of CAR-T cells, a type of immunotherapy used to treat cancer. The researchers found that by inhibiting a metabolic process called reductive carboxylation, they were able to prevent premature dysfunction of the modified T-cells. In mouse models of leukemia and multiple myeloma, the CAR-T cells multiplied normally and retained their capacity to attack cancer cells. Additionally, the researchers found that mice treated with the inhibitor were virtually cured of their cancer. The researchers propose repositioning the inhibitor in order to produce more powerful CAR-T cells in vitro.
https://www.insideprecisionmedicine.com/topics/oncology/scientists-improve-anti-tumor-power-of-car-t-cells/