Targeted Immunotherapy Achieves 97% Remission in Older Leukemia Patients

This week's oncology coverage highlights advances in targeted immunotherapies, engineered cell therapies, bioengineering delivery approaches and care innovations. Preclinical engineered CAR T work refines constructs and signaling modules but many approaches remain at the review or preclinical stage. In clinical advances, Alliance A041703 Cohort 1 treated 33 patients aged 60–84 with inotuzumab ozogamicin followed by blinatumomab (no conventional chemotherapy) and reported 97% remission, 75% relapse‑free at one year and 85% one‑year overall survival. An adjuvant trial found pembrolizumab after surgery for Merkel cell carcinoma produced a numerical two‑year recurrence‑free survival improvement (73% vs 66%) and a significant 42% reduction in the risk of dying from distant metastasis. Industry and care innovations—from ESMO drug launches and new delivery devices to expanding AI companion services for older adults (market ~ $44 billion)—are reshaping patient experience but raise questions about long‑term efficacy and safety.