Therapies

What is TCR Therapy?

TCR (T - cell Receptor) Therapy is a form of Immunotherapy that involves genetically modifying a patient’s T - cells to express receptors specifically designed to recognize and target cancer cells.

How does T-cell Receptor (TCR) Therapy work?

  1. Collection: T-cells are collected from the patient through a biopsy as the first step of the TCR process.

  2. Modification: In the laboratory, the collected T-cells are genetically modified to express T-cell receptors
    (TCRs) that are specific to antigens found on the patient’s cancer cells.

  3. Expansion: The modified T-cells are then expanded in number to increase their effectiveness.

  4. Infusion: The expanded T- cells are infused back into the patient’s bloodstream.

  5. Targeting Cancer: These TCR-engineered cells seek out and destroy cancer cells that express the specific antigens targeted by the TCRs.

TCR Process

Benefits

Targeted Approach: TCRs can be engineered to target specific cancer antigens, providing a highly focused treatment.

Potential for High Efficacy: By directing T-cells to attack cancer cells with specific antigens, TCR Therapy can lead to significant tumor reduction.

Adaptability: TCRs can be designed to target a wide range of cancer antigens, making the therapy applicable to various cancers.

TCR Therapy

T-cell receptor (TCR) therapy is mutation-specific and can be utilized across various cancer types, provided the targeted mutation is present.
Therapy Condition or Diseases Targeted Mutations
KRAS Therapy All types of cancer with KRAS mutations G12D, G12V, G12C,G12R,G13D,G12A,G12S
P53 TCR THERAPY All types of cancer with p53 mutations R175h, R248q, R273h, G245, R249, R282, R172
HRAS TCR THERAPY All types of cancer with HRAS mutations G12V, Q61L,G12S,GL3
GNAS TCR THERAPY pancreatic cancer and other solid tumors with mutated gnas G201r, R201c

Process

During Therapy

The infusion process is typically performed on an outpatient basis, with close monitoring for potential side effects.

After Therapy

Regular follow-up visits are necessary to monitor for side effects and assess the effectiveness of the treatment.

Recovery

Patients may experience side effects such as fatigue, fever, and immune-related reactions.

  • Target Specificity: TCR Therapy is designed to target specific intracellular antigens presented on cancer cells, unlike CAR T therapy, which targets surface antigens.
  • Antigen Recognition: TCRs recognize antigens presented by major histocompatibility complex (MHC) molecules, allowing them to target a wider range of antigens.
  • Broader Application: TCR Therapy can potentially be applied to a broader range of cancers compared to other T–cell therapies.

TCR therapy has shown remarkable effectiveness in targeting various cancer types, including blood, lung, breast, prostate, colon, bone, skin, kidney, ovarian and cervical cancer cells while ignoring healthy cells.

Source: Cancer Therapy With TCR-Engineered T Cells: Current Strategies, Challenges, and Prospects - PMC

TCR therapy is for cancer patients that haven’t responded or their cancer has resurfaced to treatments like chemotherapy, radiation, or surgery. A thorough evaluation by a medical team is essential to determine if TCR therapy is the right option for the patient.

  • Cytokine Release Syndrome (CRS): A potential side effect characterized by fever, fatigue, and low blood pressure.
  • On-Target, Off-Tumor Toxicity: If the targeted antigen is also present on healthy cells, it could lead to damage to those cells.
  • General Side Effects: May include infusion reactions, infections, and general fatigue.

Alternative options may include:

  • Other immunotherapies
  • Targeted therapies
  • Participation in additional clinical trials
  • Supportive care to manage symptoms and improve quality of life
Insurance coverage for TCR Therapy varies by provider and plan. Patients should consult with their healthcare provider and insurance company to understand coverage options and potential costs.

Approved by FDA - Click here for more details

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