NEW DELHI: AIIMS Delhi has developed an antibody-based therapy for recurrent cancers, particularly Multiple Myeloma (MM), marking a significant advancement in cancer treatment. This innovation, is done by by the Department of Medical Oncology at the Dr. BR Ambedkar Institute Rotary Cancer Hospital (BRAIRCH), aims to make advanced treatments like CAR-T cell therapy more accessible and affordable for patients in India.
Multiple Myeloma is a complex cancer that frequently returns even after treatment. CAR-T cell therapy, a cutting-edge approach for treating relapsed and refractory cancers, modifies a patient’s T-cells (a type of white blood cell) to target and destroy cancer cells. Despite its effectiveness, the high cost—over ₹1 crore—has made it unaffordable for many patients.
To address this issue, AIIMS researchers have developed a domestic solution using an antibody that targets B Cell Maturation Antigen (BCMA), a key marker in MM. This effort, led by Dr. Mayank Singh and his team, has resulted in the successful patenting of this antibody therapy in India.
“Our CAR-T cell therapy, based on the BCMA antibody, represents a significant step forward for patients with relapsed and refractory Multiple Myeloma,” said Dr. Mayank Singh. “Following two and a half years of dedicated research, we are now ready to commence clinical trials.”
The project has received funding from the Department of Biotechnology (DBT) to support the development of this indigenous technology. Preparations for human trials are in progress, with the initial phase set to involve 10 patients. Later phases will expand the scope to larger groups.
aiims expects this innovation to dramatically lower treatment costs. While the therapy costs over ₹1 crore internationally, AIIMS aims to reduce the cost to approximately ₹20 lakh after successful trials, making it significantly more affordable for Indian patients.
This approach to immunotherapy, including antibody-based treatments and CAR-T cell therapy, offers a precise method to target cancer cells, enhancing effectiveness while reducing side effects.
