Nebraska Medicine has achieved a significant milestone in cancer treatment by administering the first commercial CAR-T cell therapy for mantle cell lymphoma. Alan Moses, a patient at Nebraska Medicine, became the first person worldwide to receive this innovative treatment, which involves re-engineering a patient's own immune cells to target and eliminate cancer cells.
Dr. Matt Lunning, Clinical Director at Nebraska Medicine, emphasized the importance of tailoring treatments to individual patient needs. "I had to walk him through this, that he could do it," said Dr. Lunning, referring to Alan Moses. "I believed he could do it in spite of his lung condition, and despite his hearing impairment. That we can find a way, and that this is the right therapy for him and it matches the risk of his disease."
The CAR-T cell therapy process involves extracting a patient's T cells, genetically modifying them to express a receptor that recognizes a specific antigen on cancer cells, and then infusing the modified cells back into the patient. These engineered T cells, now equipped to target cancer, act as "elite fighters" against the disease.
Patient Monitoring and Success
Because CAR-T cell therapy can have a powerful impact on the immune system, patients require close monitoring. Alan Moses spent several weeks at the Buffet Cancer Center at UNMC, walking the halls to stay active. Despite challenges, including hearing impairment, the medical team successfully communicated with Alan and ensured he received the necessary care.
Implications for Cancer Treatment
Alan's successful treatment and subsequent remission highlight the potential of CAR-T cell therapy for patients with mantle cell lymphoma. It also underscores the importance of equitable access to advanced cancer treatments, regardless of sensory impairments or other challenges. Nebraska Medicine's commitment to innovation is reflected in its 191 ongoing clinical trials.
"Equity of access," said Dr. Lunning. "Even if he has a sensory impairment, we can work with that to deliver this life-saving technology to everybody."
Alan Moses has returned home to Des Moines, Iowa, where he continues to walk and enjoy his remission.
