Breakthrough cancer therapy may eliminate need for lifelong autoimmune medications

Approximately 8 percent of Americans live with autoimmune diseases, which are often difficult to diagnose, chronic, and require ongoing immunosuppressive treatments. Dr. Alicia Lieberman at Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center is leading research into whether CAR T-cell therapy—a cancer immunotherapy that modifies T-cells—can be used to treat severe autoimmune diseases such as lupus, scleroderma, and multiple sclerosis. Early clinical trials show promising results, with some patients experiencing significant improvement or reversal of symptoms. The goal is to achieve a one-time immune reset that eliminates the need for long-term treatment, and clinical trials are currently enrolling new participants.