iC9-GD2.CAR.IL-15 T cells

iC9-GD2.CAR.IL-15 T cells are a genetically engineered, autologous chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T cell therapy designed to target cancers expressing the disialoganglioside GD2 antigen, such as neuroblastoma, osteosarcoma, and certain lung cancers[3][5][6]. These CAR-T cells incorporate three key features: 1) A CAR targeting GD2 for tumor recognition and cytotoxicity; 2) Expression of interleukin 15 (IL‑15), which enhances CAR-T cell survival, proliferation, and antitumor activity by providing cytokine support both before and after antigen encounter[5]; 3) An inducible caspase 9 (iC9) safety switch that allows for rapid elimination of the infused CAR-T cells in case of severe adverse events[5]. The construct uses CD28 and CD3ζ signaling domains for robust activation upon target engagement[3]. Developed primarily at UNC Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center with involvement from Bellicum Pharmaceuticals, this therapy is being evaluated in phase 1 clinical trials for relapsed/refractory neuroblastoma, osteosarcoma, small cell lung cancer (SCLC), and non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC)[6][7].

Other names

autologous iC9-GD2CAR-CD28-CD3zeta-IL-15-expressing T lymphocytes