New Cell Contenders in the CAR Field (Part 2)

Why do we need new cell contenders in the CAR field? Well, different CAR immune cells have different advantages and sometimes unique challenges or limitations.

So, we began our discussion of alternative CAR-cell types with CAR-NK cells due to their current standing as the most popular alternative CAR-based therapy. However, the expansion of CARs to other cell types has already begun and shows promising results. The utility of CAR endowed macrophages (CAR-MF) has recently been demonstrated and their amazing potential is only beginning to be realized. The novelty of CAR-MFs means much of the experimental data remains proprietary. However, the available information on CAR-MFs in combination with what is known about macrophage biology allows us to develop solid insights into their potential.

Macrophages are prominent member of the innate immune system and have a number of diverse roles in the body. Scientists typically characterize macrophages based on various surface markers and secreted factors that are closely associated with inflammation pathogen defense, and tumor defense (M1), anti-inflammation and wound healing (M2a), Immunoregulation (M2b), Immunosuppression and tissue remodeling (M2c), and angiogenesis and tumor promotion (M2d) [1]. It is important to note that the remarkable fluidity of macrophage polarization means that these cells can exist as combinations of these subsets making this classification system a guideline instead of a steadfast rule [2].