Promising Outcomes of CD7 CAR-T Therapy Combined with Second Transplant in Relapsed T-ALL/LBL Patients

In the ongoing quest to improve treatment options for patients with relapsed T-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia (T-ALL) and lymphoblastic lymphoma (LBL), a recent study has shown that combining CD7 chimeric antigen receptor T-cell (CAR-T) therapy with a second allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) offers promising outcomes. This innovative approach was pioneered at the Hebei Yanda Lu Daopei Hospital and Beijing Lu Daopei Hospital, in collaboration with Bioocus, and the findings were presented at the 65th American Society of Hematology (ASH) Annual Meeting.

The study focused on 16 patients who had previously undergone HSCT and experienced a relapse. These patients received CD7 CAR-T therapy, leading to a remarkable 100% achievement of MRD-negative complete remission in the bone marrow. Furthermore, the therapy also demonstrated efficacy in treating extramedullary lesions, with a 75% complete remission rate.

Following the CD7 CAR-T therapy, the patients underwent a second HSCT. The one-year overall survival (OS) rate was 58.5%, and the leukemia-free survival (LFS) rate was 51.4%, highlighting the potential of this combined therapeutic strategy. The results suggest

that CD7 CAR-T therapy, when followed by a second HSCT, could be a viable treatment option for patients who have exhausted other avenues, offering them a renewed chance at long-term remission.

The study underscores the potential of CAR-T therapy in transforming the treatment landscape for T-ALL and LBL, particularly for patients who have relapsed after an initial transplant. The integration of CD7 CAR-T cells, which target specific cancer markers, coupled with the follow-up transplant, presents a powerful strategy to combat these aggressive cancers.

Bioocus, in partnership with Lu Daopei Hospital, continues to explore and refine CAR-T therapies to provide cutting-edge treatment options for hematologic malignancies. As research progresses, the hope is to further improve the survival rates and quality of life for patients facing these challenging diseases.

This study marks a significant step forward in the treatment of relapsed T-ALL and LBL, showcasing the potential of innovative therapies in delivering better outcomes for patients worldwide.