In a promising step toward overcoming the limitations of current cancer therapies, South Korea–based biotech company Abclon has announced the development of a next-generation CAR-T (chimeric antigen receptor T-cell) platform targeting solid tumors, building on their existing success in treating blood cancers.

Moving Beyond Hematologic Cancers with CAR-T Innovation

Abclon's flagship CAR-T therapy, AT101, is currently in Phase 2 clinical trials in Korea for blood cancers. Following a recent technology transfer agreement with Turkiye, Abclon is expanding its CAR-T pipeline to address the unmet medical needs of patients with refractory solid cancers such as gastric and pancreatic cancer—areas where traditional treatments often fall short due to low response rates and resistance issues.

Targeting Claudin 18.2 in Solid Tumors with VHH and scFv Antibodies

As part of this expansion, Abclon is collaborating with Professor Junho Jeong's research team at Seoul National University College of Medicine to develop a CAR-T therapy targeting Claudin 18.2, a protein highly expressed in certain difficult-to-treat solid tumors.

The research leverages single-domain antibodies (VHHs) and single-chain variable fragments (scFvs) derived through specialized immunization and gene engineering technologies. These antibody formats—already known for their stability, specificity, and small size—offer unique advantages in targeting solid tumors with complex microenvironments.

HER2-Targeted Switchable CAR-T Platform Shows Promise

In parallel, Abclon is also advancing AT501, a switchable CAR-T therapy designed to target HER2-positive cancers. This innovative platform uses a switch protein to control CAR-T cell activation with high precision. Preclinical studies have shown strong anti-tumor effects in animal models, including those with treatment resistance and recurrence. The re-administration of the switch enhances efficacy without reintroducing the CAR-T cells—garnering interest from global research institutes and pharmaceutical partners.

Addressing Lymphoma with BTLA Gene-Corrected CAR-T

Abclon is further strengthening its oncology pipeline through a collaboration with Dr. Marco Luella's team at the University of Pennsylvania. Together, they are developing a CD30-targeted CAR-T therapy for patients with recurrent or refractory lymphoma. This next-generation approach incorporates BTLA gene-editing technology to overcome the tumor microenvironment (TME) and bolster immune cell function.

A Vision for the Future of Immunotherapy

"By converging our antibody platform technologies with advanced cell therapy capabilities, we are committed to broadening treatment indications and driving innovation in immuno-oncology," an Abclon spokesperson said. "Our goal is to deliver differentiated, globally competitive therapies that set new standards in cancer care."

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Reference: MAEIL BUSINESS NEWSPAPER