Cell: Engineered CAR T cells release endogenous RNA to awaken solid tumors to respond to treatment

Chimeric Antigen Receptor (CAR) T cell therapy uses engineered T cells to treat certain types of cancer, and is often a challenging method to treat solid tumors

"CAR-T cells are usually like lone soldiers without backup

The first tool is an endogenous RNA, or RNA from the body's own cells, called RN7SL1

Using a mouse model, the researchers showed that this combined blow is provided for CAR-T cells to mobilize the body’s own immune system and prevent tumor recurrence, even if many cancer cells cannot be recognized and killed by CAR-T cells alone

In addition to helping recruit the body's natural immune system, studies have shown that RN7SL1 can also improve the function of CAR-T cells themselves

"Simultaneous use of CAR-T cells, enhanced endogenous T cell function and strategies against common inhibitory mechanisms may provide an effective combination method to improve solid tumor response," said co-lead author Carl H.