Introduces ‘Made in India’, CAR-T cell programme
Apollo Cancer Centres (ACCs) has emerged as the first private hospital group in India to have completed the CAR-T cell programme and to further augment it. The group will now provide access to ‘Made in India’ CAR-T cell therapy, beginning with NexCAR19 (Actalycabtagene autoleucel), for the treatment of B-cell lymphomas and B-acute lymphoblastic leukaemia in patients aged 15 years and above.
CAR-T cell therapies, often known as ‘living drugs’ involve the extraction of a patient’s T-cells (a type of white blood cells whose function is to fight cancer cells) through a process known as Apheresis. These T-cells are then genetically modified by a safe vehicle (viral vector) in a controlled laboratory setting so that they express modified connectors on their surface called Chimeric Antigen Receptors (CARs). These CARs are specifically designed to recognize a protein which is abnormally expressed on certain cancer cells. They are then multiplied to a desired dose, and infused directly into the patient.
CAR-T cell therapies have gained global recognition for their unparalleled success in transforming the lives of patients with challenging B-cell malignancies. Having treated over 25,000 patients worldwide, have benefited from this therapeutic model.
Dr Shisir Seth, Senior Consultant – Haematology, ACC, Delhi, said, “The successful treatment of three patients using CAR-T Cell therapy at the commercial level, represents a significant leap forward in our fight against B-cell lymphomas and acute lymphoblastic leukaemia. These cases highlight the efficacy and potential of this transformative therapy in providing new hope for patients facing these challenging conditions.”
Sharing insights into the success of the programme, he further added, “Having successfully treated patients with imported drugs, we are now poised to treat them with the indigenously built therapy.”
Dr Amita Mahajan, Senior Consultant – Paediatric Oncology & Haematology, ACC, Delhi, “The successful implementation of CAR-T Cell therapy represents a pivotal moment in the advancement of cancer treatment in India. Treating patients with this revolutionary therapy showcases the potential and efficacy of this transformative approach in addressing challenging B-cell malignancies. This milestone signifies a new chapter in our fight against cancer, offering renewed hope and possibilities to those battling these conditions.”
P Shivakumar, CEO, ACC Delhi, Apollo Hospitals Enterprises, said, “Embarking on a pioneering journey, Apollo Cancer Centres has achieved a remarkable feat in the realm of cancer treatment. With successful treatments, our commitment to advancing CAR-T Cell Therapy is unwavering. Being the first private hospital in India to achieve success in this transformative therapy sets a new benchmark, reinforcing our dedication to groundbreaking healthcare. The indigenously built CAR-T treatment, NexCAR19, reflects our commitment to accessible and effective solutions. Apollo Cancer Centres is not just changing the narrative; we’re rewriting the possibilities of giving better treatment outcomes for cancer patients across India and beyond.”
