CAR-TCR Summit Europe 2021 | Combining iNKT and CAR technology

Marc van Dijk, PhD, Agenus, Cambridge, UK, describes ongoing research into enhancing the targeting and signalling capabilities of invariant natural killer T (iNKT) cells by modifying them with chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) technology in order to improve effectiveness in targeting solid tumors. The Virtual Systems for Immuno-Oncology (VISION) platform which involves using co-culture assays to recapitulate different elements of the tumor microenvironment is being used to drive the study and development of CAR-iNKT therapeutic candidates. Strategies to enhance the attraction of natural killer (NK) cells to the tumor site and improve the activity of iNKT cells expressing a CAR are also being investigated. This interview took place during the CAR-TCR Summit Europe 2021.