An orthogonal IL-2 and IL-2Rβ system drives persistence and activation of CAR T cells and clearance of bulky lymphoma

Abstract

) and effector T cells. In preclinical models of human CAR-refractory lymphoma, STK-009 treatment resulted in systemic and intratumoral expansion and activation of hoRb-expressing anti–CD19-CD28ζ CAR T cells (SYNCAR). The orthogonal IL-2 receptor/ligand system delivers complete responses in large subcutaneous lymphomas, even with substantially reduced CAR T cell doses, by selectively expanding and activating CAR T cells in vivo. STK-009 withdrawal allowed normal CAR T cell contraction, thereby limiting CRS induced by tumor antigen–specific T cell activation. These data suggest that the orthogonal IL-2 receptor/ligand system provides the in vivo control necessary to maximize efficacy of CAR T therapies.