Next-generation Chimeric Antigen Receptor T cells: enhancing manufacturing consistency and therapeutic durability via stress mitigation and exhaustion control (2026-2027)

CAR-T therapy uses a patient¿TM)s own immune cells to fight cancer. Two hurdles limit its impact. First, the manufacturing process stresses cells, so product quality varies between patients. Second, once infused, cells can lose stamina - ¿exhaustion¿ - reducing anti-tumour efficacy. A further challenge is that CAR-T works better in blood cancers than in solid tumours, where hostile, immunosuppressive microenvironments blunt effectiveness. Because solid tumours account for ~90% of cancers, new strategies that improve CAR-T quality are critical. We will address this in two ways: (1) test stress-reducing manufacturing strategies that keep cells fitter during production to improve batch-to-batch consistency and potency; (2) evaluate a companion treatment that helps CAR-T persist and function longer in the body while boosting local immunity. Making cells more ¿exhaustion-resistant¿ should lower relapse in blood cancers and increase the likelihood of success in solid tumours. Over 12 months w