The Novosibirsk Research Institute of Clinical and Experimental Lymphology (NIIKEL) plans to launch production of cell-based drugs for administration to patients with rheumatic diseases by 2030. This was announced by the institute’s director, Maxim Korolev, at the TASS press center.
“The project on using cell technologies under a hospital exemption regimen for treating rheumatic diseases is planned to be implemented by 2030. This is a special production cycle where a healthcare facility not only provides patients with the technology but also manufactures all technological components. A small pharmaceutical plant will be built within the clinic by that time,” the scientist said.
According to him, this type of therapy—CAR-T—is currently used in oncohematology and oncology. Treating rheumatic diseases, which also affect joints, muscles, and bones, will become the next stage.
The essence of CAR-T therapy lies in “reprogramming” a patient’s immune cells. For this, T-lymphocytes are taken from the patient, and using viral vectors, a genetic code is introduced that forces them to produce a special receptor (CAR). The receptor allows the T-lymphocytes to recognize and precisely destroy pathological cells causing autoimmune aggression, and in the case of oncological diseases—the tumor.
Korolev specified that a laboratory has already been established at Novosibirsk State University (NSU) that will focus on developing viral vectors for cell modification. “The cell product will work inside the body, promoting the restoration of immunological tolerance and leading to long-term drug-free remission,” he summarized.
Earlier, Moscow Deputy Mayor for Social Development Anastasia Rakova said that a CAR-T therapy program for adult cancer patients would begin operating in the capital this year—currently, it is only available for children.
