The Post Graduate Institute of Oncological Sciences and Research of the Malabar Cancer Centre (MCC)has successfully  completed CAR-T cell therapy, a cutting-edge cancer treatment. This therapy involves genetically engineering a cancer patient's immune system to fight the disease.  A 19-year-old patient with acute lymphoblastic leukaemia underwent this treatment at the MCC. This achievement makes MCC, the second government institution to offer this advanced treatment.

CAR T Cells used in this therapy are manufactured by ImmunoACT, the only approved CAR T cell company in India. The genetic modification process, which typically costs around Rs 50 lakh, has been made available for Rs 30 lakh through the 'Patient Assistance Programme.' Malabar Cancer Center is poised to make significant contributions to the rapidly evolving field of CAR T cell therapy.

T cells, a type of white blood cell, are vital components of the human immune system, primarily responsible for disease prevention. In CAR T cell therapy, these lymphocytes are collected from the patient and genetically modified in a specialized laboratory to produce antibodies that specifically target tumor antigens. Once reintroduced into the patient’s body, these modified cells destroy the tumor cells, making this therapy one of the most definitive targeted treatments against tumors.

This state-of-the-art treatment offers several advantages. CAR T cells specifically target cancer cells without harming healthy cells, making it a more precise treatment option for cancers like leukemia. Unlike traditional chemotherapy or radiation therapy, CAR T cell therapy is usually a one-time treatment. It also has fewer side effects compared to conventional cancer treatments. Additionally, CAR T cell therapy can improve patients' quality of life by reducing disease symptoms and enhancing overall health. The therapy typically requires a relatively short hospital stay and, in some cases, can be administered without hospitalization.