GC Cell Secures Domestic Patent for "CD5-Targeted CAR Immune Cells"

Enhanced Immune Cell Survival and Proliferation

GC Cell announced on October 17 that it has obtained a domestic patent for a "chimeric antigen receptor targeting CD5 and immune cells expressing the same."

This patent covers an immune cell technology designed to more effectively treat CD5-positive tumors, a type of cancer cell. It represents a novel approach that maximizes anti-cancer efficacy by enhancing cell activity. The technology is engineered so that immune cells can survive longer and proliferate more actively in the body, offering new treatment possibilities for patients with CD5-positive cancers such as lymphocytic leukemia.

GC Cell explained that this patent constitutes a core technology of its CAR-NK therapeutic candidate, "GCC2005." "GCC2005" is based on a differentiated platform with improved cell viability and proliferation, and is currently undergoing a Phase 1 clinical trial in Korea for patients with relapsed or refractory NK and T-cell malignancies.

While competing CAR-T therapies under development for the same indications face limitations such as restricted proliferation due to intercellular attacks, the risk of tumor cell admixture, and damage to normal T cells in the body, "GCC2005," which is manufactured from healthy donor NK cells, is expected to overcome these challenges and demonstrate superior tumor-killing capabilities as an innovative drug.

GC Cell CEO Won Sungyong stated, "This patent registration is a meaningful achievement that officially recognizes GC Cell's technological prowess in immune cell therapeutics," adding, "We will continue to strengthen our global competitiveness through innovative cell therapy research and development."