CAR T-cell therapy: Full speed ahead

Abstract

Chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T-cell therapy has dramatically shifted the landscape of treatment for lymphoid malignancies, especially diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL) and acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL). However, there continue to be significant limitations of this therapy, such as incomplete or nonsustained responses and severe toxicities in a subset of patients. Furthermore, expanding the role of CAR T-cell therapy to new disease types is an important next step. In this review, we will highlight landmark trials for anti-CD19 CAR T cells and first-in-human trials of novel CARs, as well as discuss promising innovative CAR designs that are still undergoing preclinical development. Lastly, we will discuss toxicity and mechanisms of CAR T-cell resistance and failure, as well as potential future treatment approaches to these common issues.