The role of cytokines in cytokine release syndrome (CRS) after CAR T cell therapy

Gabriel, Kathrin; Heinzerling, Lucie ; Baumgarten, Louisa von ; Subklewe, Marion und Kobold, Sebastian (2026): The role of cytokines in cytokine release syndrome (CRS) after CAR T cell therapy. In: Biochimica et Biophysica Acta (BBA) - Molecular Cell Research, Vol. 1873, No. 3, 120115

Abstract

Chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T cell therapy has transformed the treatment landscape for hematological malignancies. However, cytokine release syndrome (CRS) remains a common and potentially severe toxicity, significantly affecting patient safety and requiring intensive clinical management. This review provides a focused synthesis on the role of cytokines in CRS after CAR T cell therapy, integrating recent mechanistic insights with clinical implications. We delineate the cellular and molecular pathways involving key cytokines such as interleukin-1 (IL-1), interleukin-6 (IL-6), interferon γ (IFN-γ), tumor necrosis factor α (TNF-α) and granulocyte-macrophage colony-stimulating factor (GM-CSF), describing their sources, downstream signaling events, and effects on target tissues. By bridging basic cytokine biology with clinical aspects and therapeutic strategies, this review aims to provide a comprehensive framework for understanding the role of cytokines in CRS pathophysiology, ultimately supporting the development of safer and more effective CAR T cell therapies.

• Item Type: Journal article
• EU Funded Grant Agreement Number: 101168810
• EU Projects: Horizon Europe
• Faculties: Chemistry and Pharmacy > GeneCenter; Medicine > Medical Center of the University of Munich > Clinic and Polyclinic for Dermatology and Allergology; Medicine > Medical Center of the University of Munich > Medical Clinic and Outpatient Clinic III (Oncology); Medicine > Medical Center of the University of Munich > Medical Clinic and Outpatient Clinic IV (Endocrinology, nephrology, other sections)
• Subjects: 600 Technology > 610 Medicine and health
• ISSN: 01674889
• Language: English