Journal of Precision Biosciences
Precision sciences | Online ISSN 3064-9226
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Volume 7 Number 1 2025
REVIEWS (Open Access)
Advances in CAR T-Cell Engineering and Redirected Immune Effector Cells for Enhanced Solid Tumor Immunotherapy: A Systematic Review
Rifat Bin Amin1*, Samima Nasrin Setu2, Raihan Mia2
Journal of Precision Biosciences 7 (1) 1-8 https://doi.org/10.25163/biosciences.7110540
Submitted: 15 June 2025 Revised: 10 August 2025 Accepted: 18 August 2025 Published: 20 August 2025
Abstract
Chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T-cell therapy has transformed treatment outcomes for hematologic malignancies, yet its translation to solid tumors remains limited by tumor heterogeneity, immunosuppressive microenvironments, and antigen escape. This systematic review synthesizes current advancements in CAR T engineering, redirected immune-cell platforms, and combinatorial approaches designed to overcome these barriers. Eligible studies were sourced from PubMed and included primary research analyzing CAR T-cell design, novel immune effector cell types, bispecific engagers, or microenvironment-modulating strategies. Extracted variables encompassed CAR constructs, targeted antigens, costimulatory domains, cellular platforms, preclinical outcomes, safety data, and response metrics. Results across the literature demonstrate rapid progress in engineering CAR T cells with enhanced persistence, multi-antigen recognition, and resistance to suppressive signals. Parallel strategies involving CAR-engineered NK cells, macrophages, and γδ T cells show promise in broadening therapeutic applicability beyond classical αβ T cells. Additionally, bispecific antibodies and adaptor-based redirection systems offer flexible targeting and improved safety profiles. Despite encouraging advances, challenges such as on-target off-tumor toxicity, limited trafficking, and the metabolic constraints of solid tumors persist. This review highlights the convergence of genetic engineering, synthetic biology, and immunomodulation as key drivers shaping next-generation CAR T therapy. Continued refinement of these technologies may enable more durable and generalized success in treating solid tumors.
Keywords: CAR T cells; solid tumors; immune engineering; redirected immune cells; bispecific antibodies; tumor microenvironment; cellular immunotherapy
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