CAR T-Cell Therapy for Blood Cancers

While cancer treatments have improved, some cancers, like leukemia and lymphoma, can still be very hard to treat. Cancer cells can learn to hide from the body's immune system and resist therapy. At Stony Brook Cancer Center, we are using an advanced treatment called CAR T-cell therapy to fight back.

In partnership with iCell Gene Therapeutics, we are leading a clinical trial for T-cell cancers that haven't responded to other treatments. This is the first therapy of its kind at our Cancer Center and has received FDA clearance to proceed.

What is CAR T-Cell Therapy?

CAR T-cell therapy is a powerful form of immunotherapy. It uses your body's own immune cells, called T-cells, to fight cancer. We make them better at their job.

Here’s how it works:

• We take a sample of your T-cells from your blood.
• In a lab, we genetically modify these cells so they can recognize and target your specific cancer cells.
• We grow millions of these new, smarter cells.
• Finally, we return the modified cells to you through an IV infusion.

These enhanced T-cells can stay in your body for years, continuing to find and destroy cancer cells. This is why it’s sometimes called a "living therapy."

Comprehensive Cancer Care, Close to Home

This innovative treatment is available right here on Long Island. Our expert team provides complete, coordinated care for all your health needs in one place. For some, this therapy may open the door to other treatments, such as a stem cell transplant.

We are also researching new CAR T-cell therapies for other blood cancers, including myeloid leukemia and multiple myeloma.