Definition

A preparation of autologous T lymphocytes that have been transduced with a vector expressing a chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) containing a humanized single chain variable fragment (scFv) specific for the tumor-associated antigen (TAA) B-cell maturation antigen (BCMA; tumor necrosis factor receptor superfamily member 17; TNFRSF17) that is fused to the co-stimulatory domain of 4-1BB (CD137) and the T-cell receptor signaling domain of CD3zeta (CD3z), with potential immunostimulating and antineoplastic activities. Upon administration, the autologous anti-BCMA-CAR-4-1BB-CD3zeta-expressing T cells CT053 specifically recognize and induce selective toxicity against BCMA-expressing tumor cells. BCMA, a tumor-specific antigen and a receptor for both a proliferation-inducing ligand (APRIL) and B-cell activating factor (BAFF), is a member of the tumor necrosis factor receptor superfamily (TNFRSF) and plays a key role in the survival of B lymphocytes and plasma cells. BCMA is found on the surfaces of B cells and is overexpressed on malignant plasma cells.