New data reveals that over 50% of experimental CAR-T therapies focus on blood cancers, with solid tumours lagging behind

CAR-T (Chimeric Antigen Receptor) T cell therapy is revolutionising cancer treatment, offering hope where conventional methods fall short. As this cutting-edge treatment gains global traction, blood cancers have emerged as the dominant force, making up over half of all CAR-T therapies currently developing. With their success far surpassing that of solid tumour treatments, CAR-T therapies are rapidly transforming the landscape of cancer care. 

Chimeric antigen receptor T cells are genetically engineered (changed) cells in a laboratory. They have a new receptor to bind to cancer cells and kill them. Different types of cancer have different antigens. According to the US-based Penn Medicine's Abramson Cancer Centre, each kind of CAR T cell therapy is made to fight a specific type of cancer antigen.

According to GlobalData’s Drugs Database, blood cancers account for nine out of the top ten CAR-T therapy indications, securing their place at the forefront of this groundbreaking innovation. Out of 1,729 CAR-T therapies developing, a staggering 903 (52 per cent) are focussed on blood cancers. Even though solid tumours lead in absolute numbers, CAR-T therapies have struggled to achieve widespread clinical or commercial success in treating them.

Regulatory approvals further reinforce the dominance of blood cancer in CAR-T advancements. Nine of the 13 CAR-T therapies that have received global approval are designed for blood cancers. Notably, India-based Immuneel Therapeutics’ Qartemi (varnimcabtagene autoleucel) was recently approved for relapsed or refractory B-cell non-Hodgkin's lymphoma, highlighting the growing influence of emerging markets in this field.

Among different types of blood cancer, lymphomas lead the pack, with five indications currently being explored. The remaining share is split between leukaemias and multiple myelomas. Within leukaemia research, B-cell acute lymphocytic leukaemia (ALL) stands out, with three out of the five FDA-approved therapies for this condition being CAR-T treatments. With 159 CAR-T products in development, B-cell ALL continues to be the leading blood cancer indication in the pipeline.

This trend is further reflected in the most advanced CAR-T therapies awaiting regulatory approval. Diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL) and B-cell ALL are currently leading in late-stage clinical trials, signalling potential new treatment options.

Major pharmaceutical players heavily influence the CAR-T therapy market. Bristol Myers Squibb, for instance, has successfully launched two CAR-T therapies—Abecma (idecabtagene vicleucel) for multiple myeloma and Breyanzi (lisocabtagene maraleucel) for lymphomas and leukemias. Meanwhile, Shenzhen Geno-Immune Medical Institute in China is aggressively expanding its portfolio, with 14 CAR-T therapies in development, eight of which are in Phase II clinical trials.

While CAR-T therapy primarily focuses on cancer treatment, researchers are exploring its potential in treating other critical conditions. Swiss pharma giant Novartis, for instance, has developed an approved CAR-T therapy for Spinal Muscular Atrophy (SMA), a rare genetic disorder affecting motor function. This signals a broader future for CAR-T applications beyond oncology.

With blood cancers maintaining their dominance in the CAR-T space and rapid advancements in cell and gene therapy, the future of cancer treatment is being redefined. As research accelerates, these innovations promise longer survival rates, better patient outcomes, and even potential cures—making CAR-T therapy one of the most exciting frontiers in modern medicine.