Overcoming Barriers to CAR-T Cell Therapy in Solid Tumors: A Systematic Review of Mechanisms and Therapeutic Strategies
Duyul Lee
Seckinger High School, United States
Publication date: July 10, 2026
Seckinger High School, United States
Publication date: July 10, 2026
DOI: http://doi.org/10.34614/JIYRC2026I13
ABSTRACT
Chimeric Antigen Receptor T cells (CAR-T cells) have demonstrated success in hematological malignancies but remain limited in solid tumors. This is due to multiple biological barriers, such as ineffective trafficking, infiltration, antigen heterogeneity, the tumor microenvironment (TME), and insufficient persistence. The objective of this systemic review is to evaluate why CAR-T therapy in solid tumors remains limited, and possible strategies to overcome such obstacles. Multiple studies were analyzed on CAR-T therapy in relation to solid tumors, where most results demonstrated minimal reduction in tumor burdens. While each strategy that this review suggests can overcome a specific obstacle, evidence suggests they must be used in combination to ensure the thorough elimination of solid tumors. As CAR-T cell approaches develop, the translation of these strategies into treatment results will be crucial.
Chimeric Antigen Receptor T cells (CAR-T cells) have demonstrated success in hematological malignancies but remain limited in solid tumors. This is due to multiple biological barriers, such as ineffective trafficking, infiltration, antigen heterogeneity, the tumor microenvironment (TME), and insufficient persistence. The objective of this systemic review is to evaluate why CAR-T therapy in solid tumors remains limited, and possible strategies to overcome such obstacles. Multiple studies were analyzed on CAR-T therapy in relation to solid tumors, where most results demonstrated minimal reduction in tumor burdens. While each strategy that this review suggests can overcome a specific obstacle, evidence suggests they must be used in combination to ensure the thorough elimination of solid tumors. As CAR-T cell approaches develop, the translation of these strategies into treatment results will be crucial.
