In the article “CAR-T in resource-limited regions”, published in the journal Blood Global Hematology, USP scientists Camila Derminio Donadel, Diego Villa Clé, and Rodrigo Calado address the challenges involved in implementing chimeric antigen receptor T-cell (CAR-T) therapy in resource-limited regions, such as Brazil.
The article highlights the central barriers to access to this therapy, which has been revolutionizing the treatment of hematological neoplasms: cost and reimbursement, regulatory frameworks, manufacturing logistics, and clinical infrastructure. Although countries such as Brazil, India, and Turkey have developed low-cost academic programs, the lack of public funding, dependence on imported supplies, and the scarcity of adequately prepared centers still limit expansion.
In addition, the authors emphasize that local academic initiatives, such as the one conducted by the Hemocentro de Ribeirão Preto in partnership with Instituto Butantan, demonstrate the feasibility of alternative models for producing and delivering the therapy. These programs not only reduce costs compared with commercial versions, but also strengthen national scientific and technological autonomy. The expectation is that, with regulatory support and public funding, such initiatives may be incorporated into Brazil’s Unified Health System (SUS), expanding access and reducing regional inequalities in the treatment of patients with hematological neoplasms.
Read the full article in Blood Global Hematology: CAR-T in resource-limited regions
