King Faisal Specialist Hospital & Research Center (KFSH&RC) in Riyadh has achieved a significant milestone by successfully producing T cells (Chimeric antigen receptor or CAR-T) internally for treating cancer patients. This breakthrough will drastically reduce treatment costs from SR1.3 million to around SR250,000 per case, allowing patients to receive treatment within 14 days without the challenges of cost and shipping delays. The announcement was made during the Advanced Therapies Forum in Riyadh, highlighting the hospital’s commitment to providing timely and cost-effective treatment and integrating with national efforts to localize vital industries. This achievement positions KFSH&RC as a pioneer in specialized healthcare.
Before the internal production of T cells for cancer treatment, the production period ranged between 21 to 28 days due to logistical challenges and disruptions in the supply chain. By establishing an internal manufacturing center equipped with advanced bioreactors and cell processing units, KFSH&RC has overcome these challenges and ensured the quality and safety of therapeutic products. Employees underwent comprehensive training programs on cell manufacturing principles and techniques to support the production of T cells. This achievement represents a collaborative effort across various hospital departments to enhance patient care and treatment outcomes.
T cells, also known as T lymphocyte and thymocyte, are a type of white blood cells that play a crucial role in the immune system’s defense against infections and cancer. CAR T-cell therapy involves genetically modifying T cells to target and destroy cancer cells effectively. This innovative approach to cancer treatment has shown promising results, even in cases where traditional treatments have been ineffective. By offering T-cell therapy as part of a clinical trial, KFSH&RC is at the forefront of advancing cancer treatment options for patients in the Kingdom.
The success of producing T cells internally aligns with KFSH&RC’s strategy to develop advanced treatments and increase opportunities for clinical research. The hospital’s commitment to innovation and excellence in healthcare has earned it recognition as the first in the Middle East and Africa and the 20th in the world on the list of top 250 academic healthcare institutions. Additionally, KFSH&RC has been named the most valuable healthcare brand in the Kingdom and the Middle East, according to the 2024 Brand Finance reports. This achievement underscores the hospital’s dedication to providing world-class healthcare services and driving advancements in medical research.
The internal production of T cells marks a significant advancement in cancer treatment at KFSH&RC, enabling patients to access cutting-edge therapies in a timely and cost-effective manner. By establishing an internal manufacturing center and implementing strict regulatory standards, the hospital has overcome logistical challenges and ensured the quality and safety of therapeutic products. This achievement reflects the hospital’s commitment to innovation, excellence, and patient-centered care, positioning it as a leader in specialized healthcare in the region.
As T-cell therapy continues to revolutionize cancer treatment, KFSH&RC’s achievement in producing T cells internally highlights the hospital’s commitment to advancing medical research and providing the best possible healthcare to patients. By offering innovative treatments like CAR T-cell therapy as part of clinical trials, KFSH&RC is at the forefront of delivering cutting-edge therapies to patients in the Kingdom. This accomplishment not only enhances patient care but also contributes to the localization of vital healthcare industries, further positioning KFSH&RC as a leader in specialized healthcare and medical innovation.
