Bengaluru-based NKure Therapeutics has partnered with global gene-based medicine leader CRISPR Therapeutics to co-develop and co-commercialise CTX112, an allogeneic CAR T-cell therapy, for oncology indications in India.
Expanding Access to CAR T Therapy for B-Cell Malignancies
The strategic collaboration aims to broaden access to advanced immunotherapies for patients suffering from B-cell malignancies, including diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL) and other forms of non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma. India reports over 41,000 new cases of non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma annually, yet access to CAR T-cell therapy remains severely limited due to high costs and time-consuming manufacturing associated with autologous therapies.
CTX112: A Scalable and Rapidly Deployable Solution
CTX112 stands out as an off-the-shelf, allogeneic CAR T therapy that uses gene-edited cells from healthy donors. Engineered using CRISPR/Cas9 technology, this approach allows for large-scale production and faster delivery, eliminating the need for patient-specific cell modification and lengthy preparation periods.
Leadership Perspective: Making Innovation Affordable and Accessible
Lalit Pai, CEO of NKure Therapeutics, expressed enthusiasm for the collaboration:
“We are thrilled to partner with CRISPR Therapeutics to bring CTX112 to India. There is a pressing need for advanced yet affordable cancer treatments. This partnership provides a unique opportunity to introduce a next-generation CAR T therapy that is not only cost-effective but also readily accessible—ensuring more patients receive life-saving care without delay.”
Dr. Naimish Patel, Chief Medical Officer at CRISPR Therapeutics, echoed this sentiment:
“We are excited to collaborate with NKure to extend the reach of CTX112 to India. The country urgently needs new options for patients with B-cell malignancies. This partnership reflects our commitment to global access and the advancement of transformative gene-based therapies.”
Tackling Cancer with Precision: How CTX112 Works
CTX112 targets the CD19 antigen and is intended for adult patients with relapsed or refractory B-cell malignancies who have previously undergone at least two lines of therapy. Through precise gene edits introduced via CRISPR/Cas9, the therapy enhances its durability by addressing immune evasion, cell persistence, and cell exhaustion—critical challenges in long-term cancer treatment.
Ongoing Trials and Regulatory Pathway in India
Clinical trials for CTX112 are currently underway to assess safety and efficacy. In India, equitable access to CAR T-cell therapy remains a significant hurdle. This collaboration aims to accelerate regulatory approvals and streamline patient access, aligning with local healthcare needs and infrastructure.
A Shared Vision for Accessible Cancer Care
As reported by expresshealthcare, the co-development initiative highlights a shared mission. Both companies aim to transform cancer treatment through innovation and accessibility. NKure brings strong regional expertise. CRISPR Therapeutics contributes its advanced gene-editing platform. Together, the partnership is poised to deliver high-impact therapies to a broader patient base.