Cell therapies, including CAR-T cells, and gene therapies, represent some of the forefront advancements in modern medicine. As we witness rapid technological and clinical advancements, the global landscape of these therapies presents both remarkable potential and significant challenges. From regulatory hurdles to equitable access, the journey of cell therapies worldwide is multifaceted. This Research Topic aims to explore the current state and future directions of cell therapies, providing a platform for comprehensive insights in the field.

The primary objective of this Research Topic is to provide an in-depth examination of the global status and future trajectories of cell therapies. Despite their promise, the success and implementation of these therapies vary significantly across different regions and patient populations. We aim to address key issues such as patient navigation for cell therapy recipients, especially those traveling for treatment, and strategies to improve accessibility in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). Additionally, by comparing innovative treatments like CAR-T cells, gene therapy, and haploidentical transplantation, this issue will highlight the latest advancements and clinical outcomes. Through a balanced discussion on the pros and cons of various therapeutic approaches in specific cancers, such as myeloma and lymphoma, this Research Topic seeks to guide future research, clinical practices, and policy-making.

We invite submissions addressing a broad range of themes within the realm of cell therapies, including but not limited to:

· The global status of cell therapy: Analyzing regional advancements and challenges, potentially featuring insights from the Worldwide Network for Blood and Marrow Transplantation (WBMT).

· Best practices and supportive care for patients traveling to receive cell therapies.

· Increasing cell therapy access in LMICs: Strategies for enhancing availability and affordability, with full waivers available for authors from these regions.

· Current status of academic and point-of-care CAR-T cells: Clinical outcomes, ongoing trials, and future possibilities.

· Gene therapy vs. haploidentical transplantation in SCD and Thalassemia: A comparative analysis of these treatment options.

· Pros and cons of bispecific antibodies vs. CAR-T therapies in myeloma and lymphoma: Discussing clinical data, patient outcomes, and practical implementation.

This Research Topic welcomes original research articles, reviews, methods, and clinical trials that contribute to these themes. Manuscripts solely based on bioinformatics, computational analysis, or public database predictions without independent cohort or biological validation (in vitro or in vivo) will not be accepted. The aim is to foster a holistic understanding of the current and future landscape of cell therapies, offering valuable insights for researchers, clinicians, and policymakers.

Impact

Frontiers in Hematology

Gene Therapy, Cell Therapy and Hematology

Immunobiology and Immunotherapy