Cellogen Therapeutics secures patent for world's first bi-specific CAR T

A major achievement for India's biotech industry and cancer treatment has occurred as the Delhi-based startup Cellogen Therapeutics has received regulatory approval for the patent of the world’s first indigenously developed Bi-Specific 3rd Generation Chimeric Antigen Receptor T (CAR T) cells.

This accomplishment underlines India's position as a developing country in the burgeoning area of cell and gene therapies and allows for new potential for patients with blood cancers. The CAR T cell technology developed by Cellogen Therapeutics is an advancement in the field of cancer immunotherapy.

Unlike conventional CAR T therapies that target a single antigen, Cellogen's bi-specific platform is engaged with two tumor-specific antigens at the same time. Engaging 2 tumor-specific antigens ensures increased precision while potentially reducing the risk of adverse effects (Cytokine release syndrome and neurotoxicity, among others).

 The startup also received a $2 million load from NATCO Pharma Limited, which also now has a 5.38% stake in Cellogen. Cellogen is also about to begin clinical trials with its first therapy at the Christian Medical College (CMC) in Vellore, India, for the safety and efficacy of the therapy as well.

Cellogen Therapeutics is currently processing treatments for safety with regulatory authorities, clinical institutions, and its global partners. Cellogen’s research is being developed with the support of institutions such as the Council of Scientific & Industrial Research (CSIR), the Regional Centre for Biotechnology (RCB), and the Institute of Advanced Research in partnership with Cellogen Therapeutics and CMC.