A type of CAR T cell therapy called KIR-CAR demonstrated safety in a Phase I clinical trial involving patients with ovarian cancer, mesothelioma, and bile duct cancer, with increased efficacy observed at higher doses. By leveraging NK cell-like receptors, this therapy reduces T cell exhaustion and causes fewer side effects compared to conventional CAR T therapies.

Among the nine patients reported, no severe adverse effects were observed, and some patients showed signs of disease stabilization or partial response. Researchers hope that with continued patient enrollment and dose escalation, greater efficacy and longer persistence of T cells can be achieved.

SynKIR-110, the multi-chain version of this CAR T, is designed with a natural “on-off” mechanism that allows T cells to rest, preserve energy, and avoid attacking healthy cells.

https://www.pennmedicine.org/news/new-kir-car-t-cell-therapy-shows-promise-in-solid-cancers