FAP-targeted CAR-T cell therapy

FAP-targeted CAR-T cell therapy is an investigational cell-based immunotherapy designed to target and eliminate cells expressing Fibroblast Activation Protein (FAP). FAP is a type II transmembrane serine protease that is highly expressed on cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) within the stroma of various solid tumors, including malignant pleural mesothelioma and glioblastoma, but has low expression in normal adult tissues. By depleting CAFs, the therapy aims to dismantle the physical and biochemical support system of the tumor, potentially enhancing the infiltration of other immune cells and improving the efficacy of co-administered treatments. Additionally, this therapy is being pioneered for the treatment of non-oncological conditions such as cardiac fibrosis, where it targets activated fibroblasts to reduce pathological remodeling of the heart. The development of these therapies involves significant contributions from the University of Pennsylvania, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, and Novartis.

Other names

Fibroblast activation protein-targeted chimeric antigen receptor T-cell therapy