Pharma To Date

In a significant development within cell therapy, Carisma Therapeutics and Moderna have announced an expanded collaboration to advance in vivo CAR-M therapy for autoimmune diseases. This partnership is set to leverage Carisma's innovative macrophage-based technology combined with Moderna’s mRNA delivery platform, aiming to transform the treatment landscape for patients with autoimmune conditions.

Breakthrough in Cell Therapy Technology

Carisma Therapeutics, renowned for its work on macrophage-based cell therapies, has been at the forefront of developing treatments that utilize immune cells more adept at targeting solid tumors compared to traditional T cells. The newly expanded collaboration with Moderna focuses on two undisclosed autoimmune targets and represents a notable progression in CAR-M technology. This approach aims to simplify cell therapy by enabling the reprogramming of macrophages within the patient's body, avoiding the complexities associated with ex vivo cell culture.

The in vivo CAR-M therapy involves utilizing Moderna’s mRNA delivery nanoparticle platform to introduce mRNA that encodes autoimmune disease targets directly into macrophages. These macrophages are expected to naturally convert the mRNA into antigen proteins that target and neutralize overactive immune cells associated with autoimmune disorders. This method eliminates the need for the labor-intensive process of removing and engineering patient cells outside the body.

Implications for Autoimmune Disease Treatment

This partnership is poised to make substantial impacts in the treatment of autoimmune diseases. By integrating Moderna’s advanced mRNA technology with Carisma’s macrophage-based therapy, the collaboration seeks to enhance the efficacy and accessibility of cell therapies. The approach aims to streamline the therapeutic process and improve patient outcomes by harnessing the natural capabilities of macrophages within their native environment.

Under the agreement, Carisma will oversee the discovery and optimization of development candidates, while Moderna will handle clinical development and commercialization. Carisma stands to benefit from research funding, milestone payments, and royalties from net sales, reflecting the strategic nature of this collaboration.

The expanded partnership underscores a critical step forward in cell therapy, potentially setting the stage for new therapeutic options for autoimmune diseases and contributing to advancements in personalized medicine.