Inside CAR-T Manufacturing: Insights from the Author
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An interview with Andy Kah Ping Tay, Editor of CAR-T Manufacturing
What inspired you to write “CAR-T Manufacturing: Technologies and Innovations” at this moment?
I am teaching an undergraduate course right now on CAR-T manufacturing and see that there is no proper textbook for my students to learn the fundamentals of this topic. Additionally, most of the published contents are very technical and could be difficult to read for students and mid-career professionals trying to switch fields. I wanted to write a book that is easy to read and it can also provide readers with sufficient information on the history, fundamentals and future of CAR-T manufacturing.
Who is the primary audience for this book? Are you targeting researchers, practitioners, or industry professionals? How will they benefit from reading your book?
I intend to target this book for university students and industry professionals who are new to the field of CAR-T manufacturing. It can also be used by lecturers and senior industry leaders for teaching.
What are some of the key innovations in CAR-T manufacturing covered in this book?
We basically covered all essential steps of CAR-T manufacturing, from how to select cells, how to introduce genes to cell expansion and quality control. I believe this will provide readers with comprehensive information of this promising field.
How does the book incorporate the latest advancements in gene editing or automation for CAR-T manufacturing?
Gene editing is a key step in CAR-T manufacturing as it generates genetically engineered cells that recognise and eliminate cancer cells. Likewise, automation is an industry trend to reduce labour costs and error. The book describes various techniques for gene editing including gold-standard viruses, to emerging methods such as microfluidics, nanoparticles and high aspect-ratio nanostructures.
What was the most challenging aspect of compiling this book, given the rapidly evolving nature of CAR-T technologies?
The most challenging aspect is that the field is moving fast. Hence, instead of focusing extensively on each published paper, we decided to take a broader approach by first defining what is missing or needed in the field, then we delve into what is being done and can be done to bridge these translational gaps.
If readers could take away one key message or insight from the book, what would it be?
CAR-T therapy is promising to treat a variety of diseases, ranging from cancer to autoimmune illnesses. However, to make them cost-effective, timely and more clinically useful, technological advances in gene editing and automation are needed. This book will be a great place to start learning about CAR-T.
CAR-T Manufacturing
This edited volume describes innovations in all steps of the CAR-T manufacturing chain. These vital descriptions will help practitioners to overcome current challenges during the process and vastly reduce costs and enable timely and accessible administration of CAR-T therapy to patients.