CAR-T Cell

Term: CAR-T CellDefinition: CAR-T cell therapy is a type of immunotherapy where T cells are genetically modified to express chimeric antigen receptors (CARs) that target specific proteins on cancer cells, including those associated with mesothelioma caused by asbestos exposure.Phonetic Pronunciation: (KAR-Tee SEL)Origin: The term CAR-T cell is derived from "Chimeric Antigen Receptor T cell," which reflects the genetic engineering process involved. "Chimeric" comes from the Greek word "khimaira," meaning a creature composed of parts from different animals, symbolizing the fusion of different protein components in the receptor. The therapy's development is a result of advancements in genetic engineering and immunology over the past few decades.Significance in Asbestos Context: CAR-T cell therapy is significant in the context of asbestos-related diseases because it offers a potential treatment for mesothelioma, a cancer often linked to asbestos exposure. This therapy can be particularly important for patients who have not responded well to traditional treatments like chemotherapy and surgery, providing a new avenue for managing this aggressive cancer.Example Sentence: "After traditional treatments failed, the patient with asbestos-related mesothelioma decided to pursue CAR-T cell therapy as a last resort."Related Terms: Immunotherapy, Mesothelioma, T Cells, Chimeric Antigen Receptor, Gene TherapyNotes: - CAR-T cell therapy is still considered experimental and is not widely available for all types of cancer. - The therapy can have significant side effects, including cytokine release syndrome and neurotoxicity. - Research into CAR-T cell therapy for mesothelioma is ongoing, with promising results in early clinical trials.