PGI starts CAR T-cell therapy trial for myeloma

Chandigarh: PGI is set to begin clinical trials for CAR T-cell therapy aimed at treating multiple myeloma. This therapy is part of a broader national initiative to improve cancer treatments in India. The ethics committee at PGI has given their approval, allowing the institute to play a key role in this multi-centered study. The trials will involve around 10 to 12 carefully chosen patients across the country, with PGI managing the treatment for two of them. The process is expected to last about five to six months. Once successful, CAR T-cell therapy may be commercialized for myeloma. Currently, it is primarily used for treating leukaemia and lymphoma. Dr. Pankaj Malhotra, head of clinical haematology and medical oncology at PGI, expressed that they have identified suitable candidates for the trial. He highlighted that this marks an important development in cancer treatment in India. CAR T-cell therapy works by genetically modifying a patient’s own T-cells to combat cancer cells. In the United States, this therapy has been effective against blood cancers, with high costs reaching around Rs 45 crore. However, if made available in India, the price could drop to approximately Rs 30 lakh. During PGI's Research Day, Prof Ajay Sood, the principal scientific advisor to the Prime Minister, remarked on the government's support for developing cell and gene therapies as crucial. Despite advancements, India does not yet have the necessary approvals from the Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation for gene therapies. However, the country has authorized two CAR T-cell products. Prof Sood emphasized the need to develop regulatory frameworks to support affordable gene therapies in India, showcasing the government's commitment to fostering domestic development in this area.