Page 38 - SaxoCell Annual Report 2021
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CAReNK-AID
Chimeric Antigen Receptor engineered Natural Killer cells for the treatment of Autoimmune
disease.
While CAR-T cells have revolutionized the treatment of some leukemias and lymphomas by
eliminating malignant B lymphocytes, this approach has so far not been used for autoimmune
diseases, where elimination of autoimmune reactive B-lymphocytes would also promise a
SaxoCell Projects severe cases of autoimmune diseases. The patient´s own immune effectors, such as natural
therapeutic benefit. The CAReNK-AID project aims to expand chimeric antigen technology into
killer (NK) cells, will be retargeted to eliminate B- and T-lymphocytes that drive the autoimmune
disease. CAR´s will be developed that recognize disease specific targets for the redirection of
disease driving immune cells and will also develop clinical grade processes for non-viral genetic
engineering and expansion of Natural Killer cells.
In the first funding phase, the project aims to complete preclinical proof of concept in a
representative autoimmune disease. The project is based on IP and comprehensive expertise of
the project partners regarding an experienced consortium contributing expertise in the biology
and clinical treatment of autoimmune diseases but also in process development and translation
of cell based medicines into the clinic.
Project Manager: Prof. Dr. Torsten Tonn
Project Partners: Technical University Dresden, University Hospital Dresden, University of
Leipzig
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