CAR-iMac (chimeric antigen receptor - immunomodulatory antigen chimeric) therapy is a novel approach that integrates CAR T-cell technology with advanced immunomodulatory features. Alfa Cytology is committed to providing comprehensive preclinical solutions for the creation and optimization of CAR-iMac therapies targeting pancreatic cancer, offering clients a streamlined and effective approach to developing cutting-edge immunotherapies.
Introduction to CAR-iMac Therapy
CAR-iMac therapy aims to enhance the effectiveness of CAR T-cell therapy in targeting solid tumors by incorporating additional components that modulate the immune system and address the tumor microenvironment's challenges. The CAR construct includes a single-chain variable fragment (scFv) for antigen recognition, a transmembrane domain, and an intracellular signaling domain. It also incorporates additional features to counteract the hostile tumor microenvironment, such as cytokine production or immune checkpoint inhibition.
Fig. 1 A CAR-iMac therapy based on human iPS cells. (Singh R, 2024)
CAR-iMac Therapy Development for Pancreatic Cancer
Although CAR-iMac therapy represents a new advance in immunotherapy, its application in pancreatic cancer is still in the early stages of development. The main challenges lie in the following two areas:
- Tumor Microenvironment: Pancreatic cancer tumor microenvironment is characterized by immune suppression and physical barriers. Ongoing research focuses on developing strategies to overcome these challenges, such as incorporating additional immunomodulatory elements into CAR constructs.
- Antigen Escape: The potential for antigen escape, where tumor cells may downregulate or lose expression of the targeted antigen. Researchers are exploring strategies to address this issue, such as targeting multiple antigens or incorporating features to enhance the persistence and adaptability of CAR-iMac T cells.
Our Services
Alfa Cytology offers a comprehensive one-stop service for the development of CAR-iMac cell therapies for pancreatic cancer. Our services cover the entire development process, from initial antigen identification and CAR design to preclinical validation and optimization. CAR constructs designed to improve cellular recognition and eliminate malignant cells provide innovative solutions in the fight against pancreatic cancer.
Antigen Identification Services
Our high-throughput screening platform and proteomics and genomics services support the identification and validation of tumor-specific antigens that are highly expressed on pancreatic cancer cells. The selection of these target antigens is critical to the success of CAR-iMac therapies as they determine the specificity and efficacy of the engineered immune cells.
CAR Structure Design and Engineering Services
Gene Editing
Introduce precise modifications in T-cells, allowing for the insertion of CAR constructs and enhancing their functionality.
Molecular Cloning
Used to construct and optimize the CAR gene, ensuring it effectively targets pancreatic cancer cells.
Cytokine Engineering
Involves modifying T-cells to secrete cytokines that boost immune responses and counteract immunosuppression.
Integration
Incorporation of checkpoint inhibitors into the CAR construct to prevent T-cell exhaustion and improve anti-tumor activity.
Our preclinical testing is essential for evaluating the safety, efficacy, and specificity of the CAR-iMac therapy in relevant models. This service includes both in vitro and in vivo testing to ensure the therapy's effectiveness. The following experimental models are available on our preclinical research platforms.
In vitro models:CAR-iMac therapy is a transformative approach to the treatment of pancreatic cancer. Alfa Cytology's one-stop solutions include a comprehensive services from antigen identification to preclinical testing dedicated to creating specific CAR-iMac therapies that are effective against pancreatic cancer. Please do not hesitate to contact us for detailed advice and support.
Reference
- Singh R. Beyond the CAR T Cells: TIL Therapy for Solid Tumors. Immune Network. 2024, 24(2).
