CAR-T for Glioblastoma

CAR-T Therapy for Glioblastoma

Glioblastoma is one of the most common and challenging primary brain tumors in adults. It originates from glial cells in the brain and is known for its rapid growth and tendency to infiltrate surrounding tissue, making complete removal difficult. Symptoms can include headaches, seizures, cognitive changes, and neurological deficits, depending on the tumor’s location. While standard treatments can help manage the disease, many patients seek targeted therapies to improve outcomes and quality of life.

CAR-T (Chimeric Antigen Receptor T-cell) therapy represents a cutting-edge form of immunotherapy. It involves modifying your own T cells—a type of immune cell—to recognize and attack cancer cells that express specific markers. For glioblastoma, this therapy aims to provide a personalized treatment that could potentially extend survival and alleviate symptoms, especially when combined with other modalities.

Targets in CAR-T Therapy for Glioblastoma

In glioblastoma, certain proteins on the surface of tumor cells serve as ideal targets for CAR-T therapy due to their overexpression on cancer cells and limited presence on healthy tissues. At Bioocus, we focus on two key targets:

GD2: This is a glycolipid antigen commonly found on glioblastoma cells, as well as other brain tumors like diffuse midline gliomas. GD2 is involved in cell signaling and is highly expressed in aggressive tumors, making it a promising marker for immune targeting.
B7-H3: Also known as CD276, this immune checkpoint protein is overexpressed in glioblastoma and contributes to tumor evasion of the immune system. It plays a role in promoting cancer growth and suppressing immune responses, which makes it an effective target for enhancing T-cell attacks.

By engineering CAR-T cells to recognize GD2 or B7-H3, the therapy directs a focused assault on tumor cells while minimizing damage to normal brain tissue.

How CAR-T Therapy Works: The Mechanism of Action

CAR-T therapy begins with collecting a sample of your T cells through a process similar to blood donation. These cells are then genetically modified in a laboratory to express a chimeric antigen receptor (CAR)—a custom receptor that acts like a “homing device” for cancer cells.

Recognition: The CAR on the T cells binds specifically to GD2 or B7-H3 on glioblastoma cells, much like a lock and key.
Activation: Once bound, the CAR triggers the T cells to activate, multiply, and release signaling molecules that rally other immune cells to join the fight.
Destruction: The activated T cells directly attack and kill the targeted cancer cells, potentially leading to tumor shrinkage and reduced disease burden.

This process typically involves infusing the modified T cells back into your body, often through intravenous or targeted delivery methods to reach the brain. The goal is to create a sustained immune response that continues to monitor and eliminate residual cancer cells over time.