Apollo Hospitals Introduces 'Made in India' CAR-T Cell Program

Ahmedabad, February 8, 2024: Apollo Cancer Centres (ACCs) has become the first private hospital group in India to complete the CAR-T cell program, marking a significant milestone in cancer treatment options in the country. The group will now offer access to 'Made in India' CAR-T cell therapy, starting with NexCAR19™ (Actalycabtagene autoleucel), targeting B-cell lymphomas and B-acute lymphoblastic leukaemia in patients aged 15 years and above.

Also known as ‘living drugs’ the therapy involves the extraction of a patient’s T-cells, genetically modifying them to express Chimeric Antigen Receptors (CARs), designed to recognize proteins expressed on cancer cells. These modified cells are then infused back into the patient. This innovative therapy has gained global recognition for its success in treating challenging B-cell malignancies, benefiting over 25,000 patients worldwide. 

Dr. Velu Nair, Head - Medical Services & Chief Consultant - Hemat-Oncology, ACC, Ahmedabad, said, "The successful treatment of three patients using CAR-T Cell therapy at the commercial level represents a significant leap forward in our fight against B-cell lymphomas and acute lymphoblastic leukaemia. These cases highlight the efficacy and potential of this transformative therapy in providing new hope for patients facing these challenging conditions."

Sharing insights into the success of the program, he further added, "Having treated patients with imported drugs, we are now poised to treat them with the indigenously built therapy."

Mr. Neeraj Lal, COO, Apollo Hospitals, Ahmedabad, emphasized the hospital's dedication to advancing this therapy, stating, "Embarking on a pioneering journey, Apollo Cancer Centres has achieved a remarkable feat in the realm of cancer treatment. With successful treatments, our commitment to advancing CAR-T Cell Therapy is unwavering. Being the first private hospital in India to achieve success in this transformative therapy sets a new benchmark, reinforcing our dedication to groundbreaking healthcare. The indigenously built CAR-T treatment, NexCAR19, reflects our commitment to accessible and effective solutions. Apollo Cancer Centres is not just changing the narrative; we're rewriting the possibilities of giving better treatment outcome for cancer patients across India and beyond.”

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The introduction of the CAR-T cell therapy represents a new era for cancer treatment in India, showcasing Apollo Cancer Centres' commitment to pioneering medical advancements.