Cancer is a word no one wants to hear. Especially when it comes to solid tumors, which are tougher to treat than blood cancers and often come with fewer options. But now, for the first time, we have real hope.
In a world-first clinical trial, scientists have shown that CAR T-cell therapy—an immune-based treatment once reserved for leukemia and lymphoma—can significantly prolong life in patients with advanced gastric and gastro-oesophageal cancers.
CAR stands for Chimeric Antigen Receptor. It's a synthetic receptor added to a patient’s T-cells, making them:
- Smarter (can identify cancer markers)
- Stronger (can survive longer in the body)
- Selective (only attack cancer cells)
What happens?
CAR T-cells are “trained” to seek and destroy cancer cells expressing a specific target antigen (like CLDN18.2, found in stomach cancers).
- Patient’s blood → T-cells extracted
- In lab → T-cells genetically modified with CAR
- Modified T-cells (CAR T-cells) → Infused back
- CAR T-cells target tumor-specific antigens
- Tumor cells destroyed by patient's own immune system
This therapy targets gastric (stomach) and gastroesophageal junction (GEJ) cancers — solid tumors that grow in the digestive tract and are often detected late.
Clinical Relevance
| Parameter | Details |
|---|---|
| Condition | Advanced gastric or GEJ cancer |
| Therapy | CAR T-cell immunotherapy |
| Target | CLDN18.2 protein |
| Trial Result | 40% increase in overall survival |
| Median Survival | 7.9 months (vs 5.5 with standard treatment) |
| Trial Location | China |
| Study Type | Randomized controlled trial |
| Announced At | ASCO 2025 (American Society of Clinical Oncology) |
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