In this episode of On the Edge of Breakthrough: Voices of Cancer Research, Dr. Monty Pal welcomes Dr. Enrique Montero, research professor within the Arthur Riggs Diabetes & Metabolism Research Institute, to discuss his global journey in immunology and the pioneering work underway at City of Hope. Dr. Montero shares how early clinical experiences with lupus inspired his lifelong mission to bridge basic science and clinical application, leading to innovative therapies for cancer and autoimmune diseases. 

The episode dives into the significance of the CD6 molecule on T cells - how its overexpression drives inflammation in conditions like type 1 diabetes and graft-versus-host disease (GVHD). The duo discusses the development of targeted monoclonal antibodies and a groundbreaking approach using genetically modified regulatory T cells—CAR Tregs—to modulate immune responses, aiming not just to control disease but to regenerate damaged tissue. 

Dr. Montero shares early insights from the first-in-human clinical trial of CAR Tregs for GVHD, noting promising safety and signs of durable benefit in patients who had exhausted other treatment options. 

Looking ahead, Dr. Montero envisions expanding this technology to tackle type 1 diabetes and other autoimmune conditions, driven by a collective dream to move beyond symptom management toward true cures.