CAR T Cell Therapy For Lupus Explained

CAR-T Cell Therapy For Lupus – How I Became Aware

Recently, I received a WhatsApp message from a family friend about a new cure for Lupus; however, as I am used to getting messages about new super fruits or diets that will magically cure Lupus, I thanked her for the update. I went on with my life; however, over the next few days, I continued to receive messages of this nature from various friends and family members, so I then decided to consult Doctor Google, where I was presented with headlines such as:

“‘Groundbreaking’ trial offers new lupus treatment!!”

Now, I have been in this lupus game for a hot minute and know not to jump up and get excited; however, I made a note to speak to my rheumatologist at my next appointment, which was yesterday, during which she explained that Chimeric Antigen Receptor T-cell therapy (CAR-T) has previously shown positive results in treating blood cancers and based on how this treatment works, efforts have now turned towards exploring their potential in treating autoimmune diseases like Lupus.

Before I get too far ahead of myself, let me explain CAR-T cell immunotherapy with the help of my rheumatologist and Dr. Google.

But first, a cheeky disclaimer

Disclaimer

The information and tips in this post are based on my experiences. They are provided for general information and educational purposes to aid other Lupus warriors in finding their coping mechanisms. They do not constitute medical advice for any specific medical condition or situation. This Wots Her Name Again? should not be used or relied upon to diagnose or treat a problem, disease, or medical condition.

It is important to note that only your licensed physician or healthcare professional can address your concerns and questions about Lupus, its diagnosis and treatment.

What Is CAR-T Cell Therapy For Lupus ?

“CAR-T cell therapy” stands for “Chimeric Antigen Receptor T-cell therapy” and is a type of immunotherapy.

Our immune system has many different types of cells, including T cells and B cells. B cells produce antibodies that signal to other parts of the immune system, such as T cells, to destroy infections, disease, and damaged cells.

In patients with Lupus, the B cells produce autoantibodies, meaning the immune system mistakenly attacks the body’s tissues.

CAR-T cell therapy basically involves collecting a patient’s T cells and modifying them so that they can correctly recognise and destroy B cells. The idea is that the T cells could destroy the B cells that create the autoantibodies, allowing the immune system to stop attacking the body’s own tissues and reducing the inflammation and damage caused by Lupus.

Could CAR-T Therapy For Lupus Be The Breakthrough We’ve Been Waiting For?

Previously small clinical trial tested CAR-T therapy with five people with severe SLE. All five people experienced remission of their Lupus and were able to withdraw from their lupus medication for between three and seventeen months.

While this news was very promising and exciting, it was, however, an exceedingly small study. A lot more research needs to be done with more people to see if it is safe and effective and, if so, who it might be most effective for.

More research is crucial. Larger trials with more participants are necessary to confirm the safety and effectiveness of the treatment for people with Lupus. As Lupus can manifest differently in individuals, it’s important to understand that CAR-T therapy may not be universally effective. The impact of specific patient characteristics on the response to CAR-T is still under investigation.

Risks Or Side Effects Of CAR-T Cell Therapy For Lupus ?

As of now, there is not enough research to determine the specific side effects or risks of Car-T Therapy For Lupus. However, like any medical treatment, there are potential risks, and these should be discussed with your healthcare provider.

Is CAR-T Cell Therapy For Lupus Available In The UK?

As of now, CAR-T therapy is not available in the UK for the treatment of any condition, including Lupus. However, clinical trials for Car-T Therapy For Lupus in the UK for people with Lupus and other autoimmune diseases are set to begin soon.

Further clinical trials of CAR-T therapy are starting soon in the UK for people with Lupus and other autoimmune diseases. Only people who have Lupus and are participating in a trial can receive CAR-T therapy.

CAR-T Cell Therapy For Lupus Clinical Trials?

Your doctor must refer you, and you cannot refer or contact the trial team yourself. However, if you are interested in taking part in a trial or you want to find out what trials are happening in Lupus near you, you can speak to your rheumatologist and say you are interested in clinical trials.

Please note: Trials all have “eligibility criteria,” which means that only people with specific characteristics, such as particular symptoms, can take part. Different trials can have different eligibility criteria.

When Will CAR-T Cell Therapy For Lupus Be Available On The NHS?

Unfortunately, the CAR-T research is still in the early stages, so it is not possible to say, but it is likely to be some time before it is made available for more people. More research is needed to confirm it is safe and effective and for whom. Therefore, it is not likely to be available on the NHS anytime soon.

What Happens During CAR-T Cell Therapy For Lupus?

The first step in CAR-T therapy is the collection of white blood cells, a process known as ‘leukapheresis.’ These cells are then used to create the CAR-T treatment, which is customized for each patient and can take a few weeks to prepare.
A few days before the treatment, the patient will undergo a conditioning treatment called “lymphodepletion,” which reduces the number of white blood cells in the body to make “space” for the CAR-T treatment.
The CAR-T treatment is then given as a one-time infusion in the hospital.
The patient will then need to stay in and nearby the hospital for monitoring. This could be for between 10 and 30 days, depending on the specific trial and how the patient responds to the treatment.
After the treatment, monitoring will continue, often including blood tests.

Lupus Information And Resources

For those seeking further reliable information and support for systemic Lupus and discoid Lupus, Lupus UK and Hibbs Lupus Trust are highly recommended. These organisations provide a range of services, from educational resources to support groups, and their expertise in the field makes them invaluable resources.

Remember, when it comes to your concerns and questions about Lupus, its diagnosis and treatment, your licensed physician or healthcare professional is the best person to turn to. Their expertise is crucial in managing this condition, and they are there to support and guide you.

Discover more about my journey with Lupus by checking out these insightful posts:

Disclaimer: The information and tips in this post are based on my personal journey with Lupus. They are shared for the specific purpose of educating and informing other Lupus warriors, helping them find their own coping mechanisms.

Please note that this is not medical advice for any specific condition or situation. Wots Her Name Again? should not be used or relied upon to diagnose or treat a problem, disease, or medical condition.

It is crucial to remember that your licensed physician or healthcare professional is the only one who can provide the necessary guidance and address your concerns and questions about Lupus, its diagnosis and treatment. Their expertise is invaluable.

Resources For Navigating Lupus

If you or a loved one is being diagnosed with Lupus and needs further assistance or information, these reliable and trusted resources can provide the help you need.

Lupus UK

Lupus UK is a voluntary organisation in the United Kingdom that plays a crucial role in providing information and support to individuals affected by systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE).

Lupus Trust

The Lupus Trust (previously the St Thomas Lupus Trust) was established to fund vital research into Lupus and provide information on the condition.

Hibbs Lupus Trust

A Personal Journey Turned into a Mission The Hibbs Lupus Trust, a registered charity founded in 2011 by the Hibbs family, was born from a personal journey with Lupus and a strong desire to create meaningful change.

Photos by Kindel Media