Transforming Therapies for Myeloma Patients
Chimeric Antigen Receptor (CAR)-T cell therapy involves reprogramming a patient’s own T cells (a type of immune cell) to target and kill cancer cells with unparalleled precision. It has revolutionised the treatment of blood cancer, however there are many patients that will still relapse after receiving CAR-T cell therapy.
Supported by the Snowdome Foundation, Associate Professor Jane Oliaro is undertaking incredibly important work at the Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre to improve the functionality of CAR-T cells for myeloma patients. A new gene-editing approach will be used to provide a ‘back-up’ mechanism to continue to eliminate the cancer once the infused CAR-T cells are gone.
To achieve this, additional genetic modification will be undertaken on the CAR-T cells so they become “armoured” and secrete a particular immune stimulating factor in the myeloma microenvironment – the bone marrow. The secreted factor from the CAR-T cells can activate a patient’s own immune system, helping to eliminate myeloma cells and ensuring the cancer remains under control even when the CAR-T cells are gone. This provides an extra layer of protection with longer durability, as our immune system is capable of generating memory T cells that can last for decades in a person.
This research will use unique preclinical models developed by the investigator team, including specialised imaging, to assess the efficacy of the “armoured” CAR-T cells in comparison to the standard CAR-T cells. Significantly, the investigator team for this work has developed the infrastructure and capabilities to rapidly translate these novel preclinical CAR T concepts into proof-of-concept phase 1 clinical trials at the Centre of Excellence in Cellular Immunotherapy within the Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre.
More than 2,600 Australians are diagnosed with multiple myeloma each year. Recent advancements in CAR-T cell therapy and widened accessibility have improved outcomes for Australian myeloma patients, however there is much more work to be done.
If you would like to support blood cancer research by making a tax-deductible donation, please click here.