Chimeric antigen receptor T cell therapy in pancreatic cancer: from research to practice

Med Oncol. 2018 May 4;35(6):84. doi: 10.1007/s12032-018-1145-0.

Abstract

Chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T cell therapy is genetically engineered tumor antigen-specific anticancer immunotherapy, which after showing great success in hematological malignancies is currently being tried in advanced solid tumors like pancreatic cancer. Immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment and dense fibrous stroma are some of the limitation in the success of this novel therapy. However, genetic modifications and combination therapy is the topic of the research to improve its efficacy. In this article, we summarize the current state of knowledge, limitations, and future prospects for CAR T cell therapy in pancreatic cancer.

Keywords: CAR T cell therapy; Immunotherapy; Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma; Tumor microenvironment.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Carcinoma, Pancreatic Ductal / immunology*
  • Carcinoma, Pancreatic Ductal / therapy*
  • Humans
  • Immunotherapy, Adoptive / methods*
  • Pancreatic Neoplasms / immunology*
  • Pancreatic Neoplasms / therapy*
  • Receptors, Antigen, T-Cell / biosynthesis
  • Receptors, Antigen, T-Cell / genetics
  • Receptors, Antigen, T-Cell / immunology*
  • T-Lymphocytes / immunology*
  • T-Lymphocytes / transplantation*

Substances

  • Receptors, Antigen, T-Cell