CC-97540 (also known as BMS-986353) is a type of CAR T-cell therapy, which is a form of immunotherapy where a patient’s own T cells (a type of immune cell) are modified in a laboratory to target and fight disease. In this case, the modified T cells are designed to target CD19, a protein found on certain immune cells. The therapy involves collecting the patient’s T cells, genetically modifying them to recognize and attack cells expressing CD19, and then infusing them back into the patient. This treatment is being studied for patients with Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE), including those with lupus nephritis who haven’t responded well enough to steroid treatments and other immunosuppressive medications.

Systemic Lupus Erythematosus – A chronic autoimmune disease where the body’s immune system attacks its own tissues and organs. The condition can affect multiple body systems, including joints, skin, kidneys, blood cells, brain, heart, and lungs. People with lupus typically experience periods of symptoms (flares) followed by periods of remission. Common symptoms include fatigue, joint pain, skin rashes, and fever.

Lupus Nephritis – A serious kidney complication that occurs when Systemic Lupus Erythematosus affects the kidneys. The condition causes inflammation in the small blood vessels and other tissues in the kidneys. Over time, this inflammation can impair the kidneys’ ability to filter waste from the blood. Common signs include foamy urine, swelling in the legs, feet, or ankles, and high blood pressure.