T-bet CAR T cells

T-bet CAR T cells are chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T cells engineered to overexpress the transcription factor T-bet (T-box transcription factor TBX21). T-bet is a master regulator of T-helper 1 (Th1) cell differentiation and is critical for the effector function, survival, and persistence of CD8+ and CD4+ T cells. In the context of CAR T cell therapy, particularly for solid tumors, the immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment often limits CAR T cell efficacy and leads to exhaustion. Overexpression of T-bet in CAR T cells (such as those targeting B7-H3, CD19, or B7-H6) has been shown to enhance Th1 polarization, promote robust proinflammatory cytokine secretion, improve antigen sensitivity, and increase CAR T cell survival and expansion, thereby providing a more durable antitumor response.

Other names

T-bet-armored CAR T cellsT-bet-expressing CAR T cellsT-bet-modified CAR T cells