Autologous IL-2-expressing Anti-mesothelin CAR T-cells OPB-101

**Semantic type:** Cell|Pharmacologic Substance

**Definition:** A preparation of autologous T-lymphocytes that have been genetically modified to express a chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) specific for the human tumor-associated antigen (TAA) mesothelin (MSLN) and conditionally expressing the human cytokine interleukin-2 (IL-2) and containing an epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) safety switch, with potential immunomodulating and antineoplastic activities. Upon administration, autologous IL-2-expressing anti-MSLN CAR T-cells OPB-101 specifically target and kill MSLN-expressing tumor cells. MSLN, a cell surface glycoprotein involved in cell adhesion, is overexpressed in a variety of tumor cell types. Expression of IL-2, under the control of an inducible "stim-on" promoter (OP1), is localized at the tumor site, and may specifically enhance T-cell proliferation, limit T-cell exhaustion, enhance persistence, and increase cytotoxicity of the CAR T-cells while not affecting regulatory T-cells (Tregs). Administration of cetuximab can promote elimination of the CAR-T cells by inducing an antibody dependent cellular cytotoxicity (ADCC) response.

**Synonyms:** - Autologous Anti-MSLN CAR-T Cells OPB-101 - Autologous IL-2-expressing Anti-MSLN CAR T-cells OPB-101 - OPB 101 - OPB-101 - OPB101