CAR T Cells Target TNF in Mouse Model of Rheumatoid Arthritis - Summary - MDSpire
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CAR T Cells Target TNF in Mouse Model of Rheumatoid Arthritis

A single infusion of engineered T cells degraded soluble TNF and produced durable disease control in mice

  • June 30, 2026

  • 3 min

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Objective:

To evaluate the efficacy of engineered CAR T cells targeting TNF in a mouse model of rheumatoid arthritis.

Approach:
  • Engineering CAR T Cells: CD8-positive T cells were modified with a TNFR1-based chimeric antigen receptor and CRISPR edits to enhance long-term persistence.
  • Targeting Mechanism: The CAR T cells were designed to bind and degrade soluble TNF through receptor-mediated endocytosis.
  • Experimental Model: The study used human TNF-transgenic mice to assess the therapeutic effects of a single infusion of TNFR1TIF cells.
Key Findings:
  • A single infusion of TNFR1TIF cells reduced serum human TNF to near wild-type levels.
  • The treatment prevented or treated rheumatoid arthritis-like disease in mice.
  • Disease control from a single infusion was comparable to repeated high-dose adalimumab.
  • The engineered cells persisted in peripheral blood for up to one year without lymphodepleting preconditioning.
Interpretation:

Limitations:
  • The hTNF-transgenic mouse model does not fully represent the heterogeneity of human rheumatoid arthritis.
  • Translation to humans would require humanized CAR designs and safety assessments.
Conclusion:

Original Source(s)

CAR T Cells Target TNF in Mouse Model of Rheumatoid Arthritis

  • June 30, 2026

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