B-cell maturation antigen chimeric antigen receptor macrophages

B-cell maturation antigen chimeric antigen receptor macrophages (BCMA CAR-M) is an investigational cellular immunotherapy that involves the genetic engineering of macrophages to express a chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) specific for B-cell maturation antigen (BCMA/TNFRSF17). BCMA is a cell surface protein highly expressed on malignant plasma cells in multiple myeloma and has recently been identified as a relevant biomarker and therapeutic target in acute myeloid leukemia (AML). Unlike CAR-T cells, CAR-macrophages leverage the innate phagocytic and antigen-presenting capabilities of macrophages to infiltrate tumors and clear malignant cells. This approach aims to overcome the immunosuppressive microenvironment of hematological malignancies and provide an "off-the-shelf" or autologous cellular therapy option. Preclinical studies have demonstrated that BCMA CAR-M can effectively target and kill BCMA-positive AML and MM cells, suggesting a potential new treatment strategy for these cancers.

Other names

BCMA CAR-macrophagesBCMA-targeted chimeric antigen receptor macrophages