How do I know if I can take part?

You may be able to take part in one of our clinical trials if:

  • You have a certain type of cancer.
  • The cancer cells have a specific protein that SPEAR T-cells can recognize. This is tested using a small sample (biopsy) of the cancer. For many people, the testing could be done from a biopsy they have had in the past.
  • Your own cells have a specific protein that the SPEAR T-cells need to help them recognize the cancer cells. This is detected by a blood test.

What will happen if you take part in one of our clinical trials?

1icon-1

SPEAR T-cells are not suitable for everyone. You will have a blood test and your tumor will be tested to see if you can receive SPEAR T-cells.

2icon-2

If you are able to participate, some of your own T-cells will be collected from your blood. This process is called apheresis or leukapheresis. It will take a few hours at the hospital to collect your cells. These T-cells will be used to make your SPEAR T-cells.

3icon-3

Your T-cells will be sent to the manufacturing site, where your SPEAR T-cells are made. This process takes about a month.

4icon-4

About 1 week before you receive your SPEAR T-cells, you will go to the hospital to receive chemotherapy. This is done to make room in your body for the new SPEAR T-cells.

5icon-5

You will receive your SPEAR T-cells at the hospital. They are given through an IV line. It is a one-time dose. Your study doctor will decide how long you need to stay in the hospital for monitoring. For many patients it is about 1 week, but may be longer.

6icon-6

After you receive your SPEAR T-cells, you will see your study doctor regularly for check-ups and to monitor the cancer.

What do I do next?

Please talk to your doctor or nurse if you would like more information or think you would like to take part in a clinical trial. You and your doctor will make the decision if a clinical trial is right for you.

Where do I go to find out more?

To learn more about Adaptimmune’s trials you can: