Summary
A new treatment has shown success in reversing a type of aggressive blood cancer called T-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia in some patients. This treatment involves altering the DNA in white blood cells to help them fight cancer. Nearly two-thirds of the patients in a trial have seen their cancer go into remission.
Key Facts
- The treatment works by editing the DNA in white blood cells to help them fight cancer.
- It has been tested on eight children and two adults with T-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia, with 64% going into remission.
- The process involves several genetic modifications to make T-cells hunt cancer cells without harming each other.
- After the treatment, patients receive a bone marrow transplant to rebuild their immune system.
- The treatment was developed by researchers at University College London and Great Ormond Street Hospital.
- 16-year-old Alyssa Tapley was the first person treated and is now cancer-free, planning her future.
- Scientists use a technique called base editing to precisely change parts of the genetic code.
- This approach is considered highly intensive but very effective when successful.
