Immune and Cellular Therapy 101
Ryan M. Weight DO, MS
Medical Oncologist
Medical Director, The Melanoma and Skin Cancer Institute
Sarah Cannon Research Institute at HealthONEWelcome to our video series on immune and cellular therapy! In this series, we will explore the latest advancements in this exciting field of cancer treatment. Our goal is to educate you on the basics, potential benefits, and current applications of these innovative therapies.
First, let's define what immune and cellular therapy is. Simply put, it involves using a patient's own immune system to fight cancer cells. The body's natural defense mechanisms are harnessed and enhanced to specifically target and destroy cancerous cells.
There are various types of immune and cellular therapies, but they all work towards the same goal: stimulating the immune system to identify and attack cancer cells. Some examples include CAR-T cell therapy, checkpoint inhibitors, and adoptive cell transfer.
One major benefit of these therapies is that they can be tailored to each individual patient. This means that treatment plans can be personalized based on the specific type of cancer, as well as the unique genetic makeup of each patient's cancer cells.
In addition, immune and cellular therapy often has less severe side effects compared to traditional treatments like chemotherapy or radiation. This is because these therapies specifically target cancer cells, sparing healthy cells from damage.
Currently, there are ongoing clinical trials and research studies to expand the use of immune and cellular therapy in different types of cancers. Some successful results have already been seen in treating certain blood cancers such as leukemia and lymphoma.
However, it's important to note that these therapies may not work for everyone, and they are still in their early stages of development. It's crucial for patients to discuss all potential treatment options with their healthcare team and make an informed decision based on their individual case.
In addition, the cost of immune and cellular therapy can be a barrier for some patients. These treatments are often expensive and may not be covered by insurance. However, organizations and foundations have been working towards making these therapies more accessible and affordable for those in need.
Overall, immune and cellular therapy holds great promise in the fight against cancer. With ongoing research and advancements, we hope to see even more successful outcomes in treating various types of cancers and improving the quality of life for cancer patients.