CAR-M cells

CAR-M cells are a novel form of cell therapy in which patient-derived monocytes are genetically engineered ex vivo to express a chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) targeting specific tumor antigens—most notably human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2). Once modified, these monocytes differentiate into macrophages capable of recognizing and engulfing cancer cells that express the target antigen. Unlike traditional CAR-T therapies that use T lymphocytes, CAR-M leverages the innate immune functions of macrophages—including phagocytosis and cytokine secretion—to directly kill tumor cells and remodel the tumor microenvironment. This approach is designed to overcome barriers faced by other cell therapies in solid tumors by enhancing infiltration into tumors and stimulating adaptive immune responses through improved antigen presentation. Early clinical trials have demonstrated safety and preliminary anti-tumor activity in patients with advanced HER2-overexpressing solid tumors such as breast cancer and gastroesophageal cancer[2][3][6][9].

Other names

CAR macrophageschimeric antigen receptor macrophagesCAR-Monocyte