Iovance Biotherapeutics has developed first-of-its-kind AMTAGVI™ (lifileucel) cell therapy for a solid tumour cancer and first treatment option for advanced melanoma.
AMTAGVI stands as the first-ever individualised T cell therapy approved by the FDA for solid tumour cancer. Its innovative mechanism revolves around deploying patient-specific TIL cells, which are T cells created by the immune system to seek out, attack, and eliminate cancer cells. When cancer arises, the body's natural TIL cells lose their ability to combat cancer effectively.
Specifically indicated for adult patients with unresectable or metastatic melanoma who have previously undergone treatment with a PD-1 blocking antibody, and if applicable, a BRAF inhibitor with or without a MEK inhibitor, AMTAGVI is derived from the patient's own tumour. Through a proprietary process, billions of the patient's T cells are extracted, expanded, and reintroduced into the body to combat cancer.
AMTAGVI offers new hope for patients. With approximately 8,000 deaths from melanoma occurring in the U.S. each year and limited FDA-approved options for those with advanced melanoma, the approval of AMTAGVI signifies a significant advancement in addressing the needs of this patient population.
The approval of AMTAGVI represents a beacon of hope for individuals with advanced melanoma, providing a potential paradigm shift in their treatment journey. This pioneering cell therapy offers promise in transforming care for patients who urgently require alternative therapeutic options.