For the first time, scientists have successfully used CAR T cell therapy to treat a patient suffering from three severe autoimmune diseases, highlighting its potential beyond cancer treatment. This topic is highly relevant for aspirants preparing through IAS coaching in Hyderabad, UPSC coaching in Hyderabad, and UPSC online coaching.
About CAR T Cell Therapy
• CAR T (Chimeric Antigen Receptor T cell) therapy is an advanced immunotherapy.
• Patient’s own T cells (a type of white blood cell) are collected and genetically modified in the lab.
• Modified cells (CAR T cells) are re-infused into the patient’s bloodstream.
• These engineered cells recognize and attack cancer cells by binding to specific antigens.
• CAR T cells can multiply inside the body, providing long-term anticancer effects.
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How It Works
• Collection: T cells are extracted from patient’s blood.
• Modification: Lab engineers add synthetic receptors (CARs) to T cells.
• Multiplication: Modified cells are grown in large numbers.
• Infusion: CAR T cells are infused back into the patient.
• Action: CAR T cells target antigens on cancer cells, killing them and triggering broader immune responses.
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Applications
Primarily used for blood cancers, including:
o B-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL).
o Diffuse large B-cell lymphoma.
o Follicular lymphoma.
o Mantle cell lymphoma.
o Multiple myeloma.
o Primary mediastinal large B-cell lymphoma.
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Side Effects
• Cytokine Release Syndrome (CRS): Severe immune overreaction causing hyperinflammation and organ damage (seen in ~12%).
• Anemia: Low red blood cell count (61%), leading to fatigue.
• Thrombocytopenia: Low platelet count (65%), increasing bleeding risk.
• Neutropenia: Low neutrophil count (96%), raising infection risk.
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Conclusion
CAR T cell therapy represents a revolutionary step in personalized medicine, offering hope for patients with resistant cancers and now autoimmune diseases. While side effects remain a challenge, its ability to harness the body’s own immune system makes it a game-changing innovation in modern healthcare. For aspirants preparing through IAS coaching in Hyderabad, UPSC coaching in Hyderabad, and UPSC online coaching, this topic is highly important for GS3 Science & Technology.
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