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Researchers at Sant Pau Research Institute, in partnership with Sant Pau Hospital and the Josep Carreras Leukaemia Research Institute, have developed a groundbreaking CAR-T cell therapy—HSP-CAR30—targeting the CD30 protein. This therapy has shown promising results in a Phase I clinical trial for patients with refractory CD30+ lymphomas, including Hodgkin lymphoma. Key Highlights: 100% overall response rate in 10 patients with relapsed or treatment-resistant CD30+ lymphoma. 50% achieved complete remission, with no signs of cancer on scans and tests. 60% of complete responders remained cancer-free after 34 months. No serious side effects were observed—only mild, manageable symptoms like low-grade cytokine release syndrome and no neurotoxicity. What Makes HSP-CAR30 Unique? Traditional CAR-T therapies for CD30+ lymphoma have struggled with limited cell persistence and high relapse rates. The HSP-CAR30 version is optimized to: Target a stable region of the CD30 protein, reducing immune evasion by tumor cells. Promote long-lasting immune memory by enhancing central memory (TCM) and stem-like memory T cells (TSCM-LIKE). Use a new manufacturing mix of IL-21, IL-7, and IL-15 to boost durable T-cell responses. Phase II Trial Update: 32 patients have now been treated in the ongoing Phase II trial. Over 55% have achieved complete remission. Data from both trials were presented at the 2024 ASH Annual Meeting. A Step Forward in Europe: This marks Europe’s first successful CAR-T30 study, potentially offering new hope to patients with limited treatment options. Backed by Strong Support: The project received funding and resources from: Josep Carreras Leukaemia Foundation La Marató de TV3 Carlos III Health Institute ‘La Caixa’ Foundation European Union and NextGen EU Blood and Tissue Bank, among others. With further study, HSP-CAR30 could redefine treatment for CD30+ lymphomas and bring renewed hope to patients who have exhausted standard options. Source: ANI

During World Immunisation Week, the World Health Organisation (WHO) renewed its commitment to safeguarding children from vaccine-preventable diseases, stressing the transformative power of vaccines in improving health, education, and national development. In a video message, Saima Wazed, WHO South-East Asia Regional Director, emphasized that immunisation is one of the most effective public health measures. “Vaccines are safe, save lives, and immunisation for all is essential,” she said, reiterating this year’s theme: “Immunisation for all is humanly possible.” Wazed noted that over the past 50 years, vaccines have saved more than 154 million lives globally—equivalent to six lives every minute. The South-East Asia Region alone has accounted for 38 million of these lives, showcasing the region’s proactive stance on immunisation. She highlighted major achievements, including the sustained elimination of wild poliovirus and maternal and neonatal tetanus, as well as significant progress against measles, rubella, and hepatitis B. “Our region vaccinates over 40 million pregnant women and 37 million newborns annually and supplies 46% of the global vaccine demand,” she added. However, Wazed acknowledged ongoing challenges. “Despite our progress, more than 2 million children remain completely unvaccinated. The risk of outbreaks continues to threaten communities,” she warned. Shrinking global health budgets, she said, are putting pressure on immunisation programmes and outbreak response systems. To counter these threats, Wazed urged renewed investment in routine immunisation, greater innovation, and a united effort to end vaccine hesitancy. “To protect our progress and reach every child, we must act now,” she urged. “Vaccines represent our greatest achievement—and our children, our greatest treasure.” Wazed concluded by calling for collective action from governments, health workers, communities, and global partners to ensure no child is left behind. Source: ANI