DLL3 CAR-T cells

DLL3 CAR-T cells are a form of chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T cell therapy engineered to specifically target Delta-like protein 3 (DLL3), a tumor cell surface antigen highly expressed in small cell lung cancer (SCLC) and other neuroendocrine tumors, with minimal expression in normal adult tissues. Genetically modified patient T cells express synthetic receptors that recognize DLL3, enabling targeted cytotoxicity against DLL3-positive tumor cells, thereby sparing healthy tissues. Some advanced preclinical and early clinical constructs secrete the pro-inflammatory cytokine IL-18 (“armored CAR T cells”), which further enhances anti-tumor efficacy through improved T cell expansion, activation, and favorable modulation of the tumor microenvironment. Multiple constructs are under development, including AMG 119 (with co-stimulatory CD28/4-1BB domains) and LB2102. Early-phase clinical trials for relapsed/refractory SCLC have demonstrated evidence of activity and a manageable safety profile, though response rates thus far lag behind some antibody-based approaches. DLL3 CAR-T cells are also under investigation for use in other DLL3-expressing neuroendocrine cancers.

Other names

Delta-like protein 3-targeted CAR-T cellsDLL3-targeted chimeric antigen receptor T-cellsDLL-3-targeted chimeric antigen receptor T-cellsDLL 3-targeted chimeric antigen receptor T-cells