CAR-T Therapy

What is CAR-T Cell Therapy?

CAR-T cell therapy is an innovative method for treating cancer based on the modification of the patient’s own immune cells. The essence of the approach is to "teach" T-lymphocytes to recognize and destroy cancer cells. This is achieved by introducing a chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) into the cells, enabling them to identify specific proteins on the surface of cancer cells.

During therapy, the patient’s cells are extracted, genetically modified, and then returned to the body. These modified T-cells gain enhanced abilities to destroy tumors, making CAR-T one of the most promising forms of immunotherapy.

Indications for CAR-T Cell Therapy

Currently, CAR-T therapy is primarily used to treat hematologic malignancies, particularly in cases resistant to standard therapies:

• Acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL), especially in children and young adults;

• Diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL);

• Primary mediastinal B-cell lymphoma;

• Follicular lymphoma;

• Multiple myeloma.

Clinical trials are underway to explore the use of CAR-T for solid tumors, such as lung, pancreatic, and brain cancers. However, its effectiveness in these cases still requires further confirmation.

Stages of CAR-T Cell Therapy

CAR-T therapy is a complex, high-tech process where each step is crucial. From cell collection to monitoring the body's response—every stage aims to mobilize the immune system to fight the tumor.

Collection and Modification of T-Cells

The first stage is leukapheresis—a procedure to extract T-cells from the patient’s blood. This procedure is performed in specialized centers and takes several hours. The extracted cells are then sent to a laboratory for genetic modification. Using viral vectors, a gene encoding the chimeric antigen receptor is inserted into the cells' DNA.

After modification, the cells are cultured and multiplied to reach the required quantity. This process may take 2-3 weeks. All stages are conducted under strict quality control and sterile conditions, which is essential for patient safety.

Chemotherapy and CAR-T Cell Infusion

Before the infusion of the modified T-cells, the patient undergoes lymphodepleting chemotherapy. The goal is to suppress the immune system and create favorable conditions for the new cells to engraft successfully. CAR-T cells are administered intravenously. This is an outpatient procedure and does not require general anesthesia.

Following the infusion, the active treatment phase begins, during which the modified cells identify and destroy cancer cells.

Recovery Period

In the first few days after infusion, patients are closely monitored in specialized clinics due to the risk of serious side effects such as cytokine release syndrome or neurotoxicity. The later recovery period includes regular blood monitoring, immune activity assessment, and organ function evaluation.

Patients may experience fatigue, immune suppression, and require long-term follow-up, especially in cases of disease recurrence. Support during this phase may involve both medical treatment and psychological care.

Side Effects and Risks of CAR-T Therapy

Although CAR-T cell therapy is highly effective, it carries a number of serious risks. The most common side effects include:

• Cytokine Release Syndrome (CRS) – an inflammatory response triggered by CAR-T cell activity, accompanied by high fever, low blood pressure, and respiratory difficulties;

• Neurotoxicity – may present as confusion, seizures, speech and coordination disorders;

• Infections – a weakened immune system increases the risk of bacterial and viral complications;

• Hematological complications – anemia, thrombocytopenia, neutropenia.

In Russian clinics, international treatment and monitoring protocols for side effects are strictly followed, which helps minimize risks and ensures high safety standards.

Effectiveness of CAR-T Cell Therapy

Russia is actively developing national patient support programs and expanding the availability of clinics offering CAR-T therapy. These procedures are already accessible in cities such as Moscow, Saint Petersburg, Novosibirsk, and Kazan.

One of the key advantages of CAR-T therapy is its individualized approach: each patient’s cells are uniquely modified to target a specific type of tumor. This personalized treatment ensures high effectiveness and reduces the likelihood of relapse.

If you are considering CAR-T treatment in Russia, it is essential to consult a specialist in a timely manner. Marus, a medical service platform, can help organize your treatment at every stage—from diagnosis to post-treatment follow-up.

CAR-T cell therapy is a groundbreaking method for treating cancer, especially in cases where other treatments have failed. Thanks to its high survival and remission rates, and the rapid development of this approach in Russia, CAR-T therapy is becoming increasingly accessible to patients. However, it is important to remember that this therapy requires a professional approach, careful monitoring, and an individualized treatment plan.