Covenant Health is proud to announce the availability of CAR T-cell therapy at the Joe Arrington Cancer Research & Treatment Center (JACC), a groundbreaking advancement in targeted cancer treatment designed to harness the power of the patient's own immune system.
CAR T-cell therapy represents a revolutionary approach in immunotherapy, providing a highly personalized treatment option for cancer patients.
HOW IT WORKS:
The process begins with apheresis, during which the patient’s T-cells are carefully collected. These cells are then sent to Bristol Myers Squibb (BMS), our esteemed manufacturing partner, where they undergo precise genetic engineering. During this phase, the T-cells are equipped with a chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) that is specifically crafted to identify proteins expressed on cancer cells.
Once genetically modified, the T-cells enter a proliferation phase at BMS, where they are grown and multiplied, ensuring there are sufficient cells for infusion back to the patient. Upon completion of this stage, the enhanced cells are safely transported back to Joe Arrington Cancer Research & Treatment Center.
Before receiving the CAR T-cells, patients will undergo a short 3-day regimen of chemotherapy. This lymphodepleting chemo is essential to reduce existing cell counts, thus preparing the body for the infusion of the newly engineered cells. After a brief recovery period, the patient will receive the infusion of CAR T-cells, which are now equipped to recognize and attach to cancer cells, effectively targeting and destroying them.
THE PATIENT:
Cindy Wagonseller is the first patient to receive CAR T-cell therapy at JACC. Wagonseller is a 56-year-old female diagnosed with Diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL), a type of aggressive non-Hodgkin lymphoma.
Her infusion of CAR T took place on June 24. With a 30-day watch period, Wagonseller was at the hospital almost daily for continual observation of our physician and nurses.
Besides some minor dehydration the days after her infusion, Wagonseller says she is feeling great. She has returned to work and even rung the bell, marking the end of her cancer treatment.
THE COMMITMENT:
JACC, as part of Providence, is the largest, non-academic, cancer research institute in the United States.
Covenant Health remains at the forefront of cancer care, offering patients hope and new possibilities through advanced therapies like CAR T-cell therapy. Our dedicated team of experts is committed to guiding patients through each step of the treatment process, ensuring they receive the highest standard of care.
“The introduction of CAR T treatment within our community marks a significant advancement for our patients,” Director of JACC Shelly Biggs said. “I am proud to acknowledge the dedication demonstrated by our team of specialists, particularly Dr. Kiran Yalamanchili and Dr. Donald Quick, whose leadership has been instrumental in making this advanced clinical expertise accessible locally. As a result, patients can now receive CAR T therapy close to home and within the comfort of their support networks.”
For more information on CAR T-cell therapy or other services at the Joe Arrington Cancer Research & Treatment Center, please call the Cellular Therapy Program Manager at 806-725-5579 or Cellular Therapy Coordinator at 806-725-7848.
