> ## Content Index > Fetch the complete content index at: https://www.upscprep.com/llms.txt > Use this file to discover other available public pages before exploring further. # NexCAR19: India's CAR-T Cell Therapy - URL: https://www.upscprep.com/nexcar19-indias-car-t-cell-therapy-upsc-science-and-technology/ - Published: 2024-04-13T11:23:31.000Z - Updated: 2024-04-13T11:23:31.000Z - Description: Science & Technology | GS3: Indigenisation Of Technology - Author: UPSCprep.com - Tags: Current Affairs, UPSC Prelims, #show-toc ### What is CAR-T Cell Therapy? CAR-T cell therapy, short for **Chimeric Antigen Receptor T cell therapy**, is a powerful form of immunotherapy for certain cancers. - It is a type of **immunotherapy** that involves the engineering of a patient's immune system (T cells - genetically modified in a laboratory) to attack cancer cells. **Here's a breakdown of the process:** ![CAR T-cell therapy | UPSC | Science & Technology ](https://nci-media.cancer.gov/pdq/media/images/774647-571.jpg) 1. **T cell extraction:** Doctors first draw blood from the patient to collect T cells, a type of white blood cell that fights infections. 2. **Genetic modification:** In a lab setting, scientists genetically modify the extracted T cells. They equip them with a special receptor called CAR (Chimeric Antigen Receptor). Think of CAR as a GPS that helps T cells recognize specific proteins (antigens) on the surface of cancer cells. 3. **T cell expansion:** Once equipped with the CAR, the T cells are multiplied in millions in a controlled laboratory environment. 4. **Reinfusion:** The engineered T cells are then infused back into the patient's bloodstream. These supercharged T cells, now programmed to identify and target cancer cells, can launch a targeted attack on the tumor. **Points to remember about CAR-T cell therapy:** - It's a personalized therapy - **the treatment uses a patient's own modified T cells** to fight cancer. - It targets specific cancers - CAR-T cell therapy is currently approved for certain types of blood cancers, like leukemia and lymphoma. - **It's a developing field** \- While CAR-T therapy shows promise, it's a relatively new treatment and research is ongoing to improve its effectiveness and reduce side effects. ### Challenges of CAR-T Cell Therapy ![Mechanisms of resistance to CAR T cell therapy | UPSC](https://media.springernature.com/full/springer-static/image/art%3A10.1038%2Fs41571-019-0184-6/MediaObjects/41571_2019_184_Fig1_HTML.png) --- **We can't clear UPSC for you.** But with our ***personalised mentor support***, you'll be ready to do it yourself. [Join Now](https://courses.upscprep.com/products?ref=upscprep.com) --- ### What is NexCAR19? NexCAR19 is a CAR-T cell therapy **developed in India** that is more affordable than similar treatments from the US. - It is designed to treat relapsed or refractory **B-lymphomas** and **B-Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia (B-ALL)**. ![CAR T Cell Therapy | UPSCprep.com](https://pwonlyias.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/untitled-290-1-65c71c3f62ad7.webp) The story of NexCAR19 is one of perseverance and collaboration. ### Advantages of NexCAR19 NexCAR19 is a game-changer for several reasons: - **Effectiveness**: Approximately **70% of patients respond** to NexCAR19 treatment, with some achieving complete remission. - **Unique Feature:** Lab and animal studies indicate **lower drug-related toxicities**, including reduced neurotoxicity and Cytokine Release Syndrome (CRS). - NexCAR19 uses a "humanized" CAR, potentially reducing the side effects often associated with CAR-T therapy. - **Affordability:** Existing CAR-T therapies are exorbitantly priced. NexCAR19, however, is significantly cheaper, making it a more realistic option for many patients in India. - **Hope for aggressive cancers:** NexCAR19 targets relapsed or refractory B-cell lymphomas and B-ALL, offering renewed hope for patients who haven't responded to conventional treatments. Trials for paediatric patients are underway at Tata Memorial Hospital, ensuring broader applicability. ### Challenges of NexCAR19 - **Cost remains a hurdle:** While more affordable than other options, NexCAR19 is still a relatively expensive treatment. - **ImmunoACT** is in the process of securing licenses and partnering with hospitals, including Tata Memorial, Nanavati, Fortis, and Jaslok, across multiple cities. - Initially priced at **Rs 30-40 lakh**, ImmunoACT aims to eventually reduce the cost to Rs 10-20 lakh, making the therapy more accessible. - **Side effects:** CAR-T therapy, including NexCAR19, can cause side effects. Cytokine release syndrome (CRS), an inflammatory response, is a common one. - **Limited access:** Specialized medical facilities are crucial for managing potential side effects of CAR-T therapy. Access to such facilities remains a challenge in some parts of India. - **Early stage:** NexCAR19 is a relatively new treatment. More research is needed to determine its long-term efficacy and explore further cost-reduction methods. NexCAR19 represents a significant breakthrough in India's fight against cancer. It offers a promising, potentially life-saving treatment option for patients battling aggressive B-cell malignancies. However, improving affordability, ensuring wider access to specialized care, and conducting further research are crucial steps for maximizing its impact. ## Sign up for UPSCprep.com Simplify your UPSC journey Subscribe Email sent! Check your inbox to complete your signup. No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.