Rs 1 Crore Cancer Cure Now in Reach: AIIMS Breaks Barriers
AIIMS Delhi has reached a significant milestone in cancer care by developing an innovative antibody-based therapy for recurrent cancers, specifically Multiple Myeloma (MM). This groundbreaking advancement, led by the Department of Medical Oncology at the Dr. BR Ambedkar Institute Rotary Cancer Hospital (BRAIRCH), aims to provide a cost-effective alternative to high-priced global treatments like CAR-T cell therapy.
Understanding the Challenge of Multiple Myeloma
Multiple Myeloma is a complex type of blood cancer that often returns even after treatment. One of the most promising treatments for such relapsed and resistant cancers is CAR-T cell therapy. This method involves genetically modifying a patient’s T-cells, a type of white blood cell, to recognize and attack cancer cells. However, the staggering cost—over Rs 1 crore—makes it inaccessible for most patients in India.
The AIIMS Breakthrough: Indigenous BCMA Antibody
To address this financial barrier, AIIMS has developed a homegrown therapy using an antibody that targets B Cell Maturation Antigen (BCMA), a key marker in Multiple Myeloma. This innovation has been led by a dedicated team of researchers, including Dr. Mayank Singh, and has already been successfully patented in India.
Dr. Singh highlighted, “Our therapy, based on the BCMA antibody, has the potential to transform treatment for patients with relapsed and refractory Multiple Myeloma. After over two years of rigorous research, we are now prepared to initiate clinical trials.”
Support and Clinical Trials
The Department of Biotechnology (DBT) has provided financial backing for this project to ensure its development remains indigenous. Human trials are set to begin shortly, with the first phase involving 10 patients. Later phases will expand testing to larger groups to confirm the therapy’s safety and effectiveness.
Cost Reduction: Making Treatment Affordable
AIIMS aims to drastically reduce the cost of this therapy. While the current cost of CAR-T cell therapy abroad exceeds Rs 1 crore, AIIMS expects to bring it down to approximately Rs 20 lakh after successful trials. This reduction could make advanced cancer treatments accessible to a larger population.
Why This Matters: Precision Medicine and Fewer Side Effects
The development of this indigenous BCMA antibody therapy marks a significant step forward in making cutting-edge cancer treatments affordable in India. With clinical trials on the horizon, AIIMS Delhi’s breakthrough holds immense promise for patients battling recurrent cancers like Multiple Myeloma. This innovation underscores the potential of local research to address global healthcare challenges.
Conclusion
The development of this indigenous BCMA antibody therapy marks a significant step forward in making cutting-edge cancer treatments affordable in India. With clinical trials on the horizon, AIIMS Delhi’s breakthrough holds immense promise for patients battling recurrent cancers like Multiple Myeloma. This innovation underscores the potential of local research to address global healthcare challenges.
Source: Inputs from various media Sources
I’m a pharmacist with a strong background in health sciences. I hold a BSc from Delhi University and a pharmacy degree from PDM University. I write articles and daily health news while interviewing doctors to bring you the latest insights. In my free time, you’ll find me at the gym or lost in a sci-fi novel.
