The potential of CAR T therapy for relapsed or refractory pediatric and young adult B-cell ALL

Ther Clin Risk Manag. 2018 Sep 3:14:1573-1584. doi: 10.2147/TCRM.S146309. eCollection 2018.

Abstract

Recent advancements in immunooncology have resulted in the generation of novel therapies such as chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T cells, which have revolutionized the treatment of pediatric patients with relapsed or refractory B-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia. The journey of tisagenlecleucel (formerly CTL019) from early preclinical success to the US Food and Drug Administration approval is summarized in this review. Strategies that are currently being investigated to improve the efficacy and safety profile of CAR T-cells are also explored, as well as the factors contributing to the present state of patient access to CAR T therapy.

Keywords: CAR T-cells; CD19; acute lymphoblastic leukemia; cancer immunotherapy; chimeric antigen receptor; tisagenlecleucel.

Publication types

  • Review