Can combined CAR-MSC immunotherapy revolutionize autoimmune disease treatment?

Although there are various treatment options for autoimmune disease, researchers are always looking to develop the next best treatment. Scientists at Mayo Clinic have developed an innovative immunotherapy approach that could revolutionize autoimmune disease treatment. This approach—which targets sites of inflammation—combines chimeric antigen receptors (CAR) with mesenchymal stromal cells (MSC) to create engineered stem cells called CAR-MSCs.

At the heart of this combined approach are MSCs, which are stem cells known for "calming down the immune system, controlling inflammation, and promoting immune tolerance." These cells can transform into different cell types and can be found in various tissues throughout the body, including bone marrow, cartilage, and fat tissues. On the other hand, CARs are genetically engineered cells that target and attach to specific markers on cells and signal an immune response.

Previous research using MSC has shown mixed results, mostly due to the cells' inability to suppress the immune system in target tissues. By combining MSC and CAR, scientists hope to target specific cells and enhance the therapeutic impact of MSC. In a study by Dr. Kenderian, CAR-MSCs were engineered to target a specific protein associated with conditions such as inflammatory bowel disease (ulcerative colitis and Crohn's disease). In mouse models, CAR-MSCs showed an enhanced ability to target inflamed areas, control inflammation, and improve symptoms and survival rates.

This is a promising lead in using genetically engineered stem cells to target specific areas of autoimmune disease activity. The research builds upon previous studies on CAR-T therapy conducted by Dr. Kenderian and his team at the Mayo Clinic by setting the stage for future applications of the CAR-MSC technology that targets a spectrum of different autoimmune diseases.

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