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Chimeric Antigen Receptor (CAR)

Chimeric Antigen Receptor (CAR) is a designed receptor (a protein which detects a signal) used in immunotherapy, particularly in the field of gene therapy. CAR is a synthetic receptor that combines components from different proteins. It is able to recognize a specific antigen on the surface of target cells, often cancer cells. After introducing the CAR inside the cell employing a gene vector, the CAR-bearing cells, such as hematopoietic stem cells or immune cells, can more effectively and specifically identify and attack cells displaying the targeted antigens to initiate a precise response against the disease.

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This entry was provided by the doctoral students of the GetRADI collaborative network. GetRADI is funded by the European Union. Views and opinions expressed are however those of the author(s) only and do not necessarily reflect those of the European Union or the European Research Executive Agency. Neither the European Union nor the granting authority can be held responsible for them.

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