Improving Efficiency in CAR T Cell Therapy Production
The chief technology officer of Mustang Bio discussed the company’s approach and future plans in CAR T production.
“We are very excited about new technologies coming in the processing world... I remember [5, 6 years ago] we tried to make things work with equipment that was designed for other purposes. Now we see equipment specifically for our needs. We're trying to bring that in to make processes more efficient, more robust, which also will lower the cost."
Mustang Bio presented positive data on MB-106, a CD20-targeted, autologous CAR T cell therapy for the treatment of high-risk B-cell non-Hodgkin lymphoma (B-NHL) and chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL), at the European Hematology Association (EHA) 2021 Virtual Congress.
Investigators found that MB-106 yielded an overall response rate (ORR) of 93% (14 of 15) and a complete rate (CR) of 67% (10 of 15). The ORR was 91% (10 of 11) and CR was 82% (9 of 11) in patients with follicular lymphoma. As of EHA 2021, all patients achieving CR remained in remission. CAR T persistence was seen in all dosages. The treatment had an acceptable safety profile, with cytokine release syndrome (CRS) occurring in 6 patients (40%): 3 cases of grade 1 and 3 cases of grade 2.
GeneTherapyLive spoke with Knut Niss, PhD, chief technology officer, Mustang Bio, to learn more about the company’s approach to producing CAR T therapies. He also discussed upcoming changes to their processing facility that will further expedite production.
