IO360 Summit Explores CAR-T Cell Therapy Expansion Beyond Blood Cancer

Recent advancements in chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T cell therapies have shown promise in treating high-risk B-cell malignancies, with seven therapies approved by the FDA as of March 2025. The 11th Annual Immuno-Oncology 360 Summit highlighted ongoing research to enhance the efficacy and accessibility of CAR-T therapies for solid tumors, with presentations on innovative techniques to overcome the challenges posed by the immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment. A notable presentation by Dr. Crystal Mackall discussed the potential of GD2-CAR cells in treating diffuse midline gliomas, which showed significant but non-durable tumor reductions. Additionally, USC researchers introduced the EchoBack CAR T-cell, which can target tumors using focused ultrasound for extended periods, potentially revolutionizing cancer immunotherapy. These developments reflect a growing focus on refining CAR-T therapies to improve outcomes in both blood cancers and solid tumors. Overall, while challenges remain, the field is rapidly evolving with new research and technologies aimed at making these therapies more effective.