The National Cancer Center (NCC) has inaugurated a cutting-edge cell processing unit, marking a significant step forward in the availability and application of CAR-T cell therapies in Korea. This facility, launched on Wednesday, is designed to process and supply the raw materials necessary for CAR-T cell therapy, an innovative treatment that genetically modifies a patient’s immune cells to fight certain types of cancer.
CAR-T cell therapy, including the widely recognized Kymriah (tisagenlecleucel), has already shown promise in treating specific blood cancers such as diffuse large B-cell lymphoma and B-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia. With health insurance coverage available for Kymriah, this new unit is set to streamline its production and accessibility across the nation.
The National Cancer Center has been designated as a high-tech regenerative medicine-implementing institution under the Advanced Regenerative Bio Act, revised in February last year. This designation enables the center to supply raw materials for CAR-T therapies, advancing Korea’s capabilities in regenerative medicine.
Speaking on the milestone, NCC President Yang Han-kwang stated, “By spearheading the revision of the Advanced Regenerative Biology Act, the National Cancer Center, as Korea’s central cancer management institution, has established a robust framework for implementing CAR-T cell therapies nationwide. We aim to bridge the gap in medical access between metropolitan and rural areas and will continue to work tirelessly to address these disparities.”
The new facility underscores the NCC’s commitment to advancing cancer treatment options and ensuring equitable access to innovative therapies for all patients in Korea.
