CRISPR’s Zugo-Cel Shows 70% Initial CR Rate and Autoimmune Cost Under $10k
CRISPR Therapeutics reported that its next-generation allogeneic CAR-T candidate zugo-cel achieved almost 70% initial complete response rate and autologous-like T-cell expansion at highest phase II doses at Citi summit. Two systemic lupus erythematosus patients attained zero disease activity off background therapy for nine months, and cost of goods for autoimmune indications is under $10,000.
1. Zugo-Cel Expansion and Response Rates
At Citi summit, executives reported zugo-cel showed almost 70% initial complete response rate in relapsed/refractory patients, compared with 40% for CTX110, and demonstrated autologous-like T-cell expansion at highest phase II doses. Targeted CAR insertion into the TCR locus and beta-2 microglobulin edits reduce graft-versus-host risk and extend persistence through immune evasion.
2. Autoimmune Trials and Cost Advantages
Two systemic lupus erythematosus patients achieved zero disease activity (SLEDAI score of zero) off background therapy for nine months, with complete B-cell depletion at day 28. Ongoing rheumatology and hemolytic anemia trials are recruiting, and cost of goods for allogeneic CAR-T in autoimmune indications is under $10,000, supporting scalability and broader access.
3. Regulatory Strategy and Future Plans
CRISPR aims to engage regulators by year-end to determine whether single-arm registrational trials are feasible or if randomized studies will be required. Parallel development includes combination studies with pirtobrutinib in third-line-plus oncology patients, as well as plans to expand into Europe, India and other markets leveraging allogeneic affordability.