Cellectis (NASDAQ: CLLS) has published an article in Molecular Therapy showcasing their innovative SMART DUAL CAR T-cell approach for treating solid tumors. Using TALEN® gene editing technology, Cellectis has developed allogeneic CAR T-cells that express:
1. A constitutive CAR targeting FAP+ cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) in solid tumors
2. An inducible CAR, expressed only in the presence of FAP+ CAFs, targeting mesothelin
This strategy aims to overcome challenges in solid tumor treatment, including low T-cell infiltration, immunosuppressive microenvironment, and on-target off-tumor toxicity. In mice models, these SMART Dual CAR T-cells efficiently infiltrated and targeted triple-negative breast tumors without observable off-tumor toxicity.