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India’s first long-term remission in aggressive blood cancer has been achieved using a homegrown CAR T-cell therapy developed by Immuneel Therapeutics. The therapy, called Varnimcabtagene autoleucel (IMN-003A), was administered in the IMAGINE Phase 2 clinical trial and showed seven patients treated in 2022 for relapsed or refractory CD19-positive B-cell Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma remain progression-free for over two years, marking a historic milestone for Indian oncology.
The key clinical results of the trial showed an impressive 83% overall response rate at 90 days, a complete response rate of 83%, and a one-year response rate of 50%. Notably, there were no severe neurotoxicity cases or ICU admissions reported among the patients. This form of cancer is aggressive and often resistant to conventional treatments, making this achievement particularly significant.
The IMAGINE trial was conducted across three premier medical centres in India: Narayana Health-Mazumdar Shaw Medical Centre in Bengaluru, Apollo Cancer Centre in Chennai, and PGIMER in Chandigarh. The trial was supported by a government grant under the Department of Biotechnology’s BIPP scheme, emphasizing national prioritization of such innovative healthcare solutions.
Co-Founder and Board Director Kiran Mazumdar-Shaw highlighted that this breakthrough showcases the life-changing potential of Indian innovation tailored for local needs, delivering outcomes comparable to global standards. The success of this therapy positions India as a leader in developing advanced personalized cancer treatments and offers new hope to patients who had limited options previously.
Immuneel Therapeutics is also working to expand access to this advanced treatment, with more than 50 patients treated successfully to date, maintaining consistent results and a favorable safety profile.
Disclaimer: This article is based on the latest available information from Immuneel Therapeutics’ clinical trial results and related reports as of August 2025. Individual patient outcomes may vary, and medical treatments should always be discussed with qualified healthcare professionals.
