CAR-T Cells: Are We Closer to Drug-Free Remission Than We Think?

What needs to happen next?

MF: We need more excitement from rheumatologists. I’d love for rheumatology to really dive into cell therapy and collaborate with us. I understand that there’s some degree of hesitancy since it’s an unknown, but this is an area rife with opportunity for those early in their careers, and it’s a huge area of need that needs to be addressed. I see an opportunity for partnerships.

Conclusion

In summary, CD19 CAR-T cell therapy holds promise for patients with severe ARDs, and more controlled clinical studies are needed. Sustained disease and drug-free remission may be closer than we think.

Samantha C. Shapiro, MD, is the executive editor of Harrison’s Principles of Internal Medicine. As a clinician educator, she practices telerheumatology and writes for both medical and lay audiences.

References

1. Müller F, Taubmann J, Bucci L, et al. CD19 CAR T-cell therapy in autoimmune disease – A case series with follow-up. N Engl J Med. 2024 Feb;390(8):687–700.
2. June CH, Sadelain M. Chimeric antigen receptor therapy. N Engl J Med. 2018 Jul 5;379(1):64–73.
3. How CAR T-cell therapy works. Dana-Farber Cancer Institute. Accessed 2024 June 5. https://www.dana-farber.org/cancer-care/treatment/cellular-therapies/car-t-cell-therapy/how-car-t-cell-therapy-works.