Chimeric antigen receptor T-cells for glioblastoma: The journey ahead

Chimeric antigen receptors (CARs) are genetically engineered transmembrane cell receptors consisting of an antigen-binding ectodomain fused to an activating intracellular T-cell signaling chain. Grafting CAR molecules on T-cells enables targeted killing of tumors. The gene therapy approach of modifying autologous patient immune cells with CARs has now moved from the research bench to early-phase clinical trials in patients with refractory, recurrent, and nonresectable glioblastoma. This is a review of the state of the science in the field of CAR T-cells for glioblastoma and an update on the completed and ongoing clinical trials available at the Clinical Trials Registry (www.clinicaltrials.gov). Here, we also discuss insights gained from the clinical trials of CAR T-cells against glioblastoma and innovative approaches to improve their efficacy.