MSKCC CAR T shows 72% response in mesothelioma

Researchers from MSKCC presented data for a mesothelin-targeted autologous CAR T cell therapy that could be the first to crack the solid tumor juggernaut for this treatment modality while also minimizing toxicity. The data could provide a read through to a preclinical allogeneic mesothelin CAR T program from Atara Biotherapeutics Inc (NASDAQ:ATRA).

Among 11 patients with metastatic mesothelioma in a Phase I trial, the mesothelin-targeted CAR T plus PD-1 Inhibitor Keytruda pembrolizumab showed a best overall response rate (ORR) of 72% as measured via PET imaging, including two complete metabolic responses (CMR) and six partial responses (PR). The CAR T was administered locally to the pleural cavity while Keytruda was given systemically. Four of the eight responses were observed in patients who were PD-L1-negative...