At first glance, it seems like something out of a science fiction movie: a patient’s cells being removed, genetically reprogrammed in a lab and sent back into the body, having been transformed into an army to fight cancer. But for Drs. Barbara Savoldo and Gianpietro Dotti, partners in work and marriage, this isn’t fiction. It’s the future of medicine, where innovative science takes a patient-first approach.
In 2015, Dotti and Savoldo brought their expertise to UNC Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center, driven by a shared dream to turn complex science into simple, effective treatments. Treatments that give patients more life and more moments with the ones they love. For them, every day in the lab isn’t just a step forward in science — it’s a leap toward hope for families facing cancer.
Turning Science Into Lifesaving Solutions
At UNC, the two oversee the development of chimeric antigen receptor T-cell (CAR-T) therapy, which transforms a patient’s immune cells into cancer-fighting “super-cells.”
The process is as intricate as it is innovative. T-cells are isolated from the patient’s blood and genetically modified to target cancer cells with precision. After millions of super-cells are created, they’re placed back into the body to directly attack cancer.
“We want an army of cells to treat cancer right away,” says Savoldo.
Originally developed in 2010, it’s already shown remarkable promise for patients with blood cancers like leukemia and lymphoma, with about 40% experiencing remission. Trials at UNC are now testing the therapy for solid tumors like ovarian cancer and glioblastoma, turning hope into action and action into healing.
For Dr. Savoldo, the work is deeply personal. In 2019, her youngest sister, Sonia, was diagnosed with glioblastoma, an aggressive brain cancer. Though Sonia passed away before the trial for this disease began, her journey inspired the creation of the Sonia Savoldo GBM Fund at UNC Lineberger. The fund supports immunotherapy research and provides financial assistance to patients and families.
“Being involved in this trial connects me to these patients and their families, motivating me to do more,” says Savoldo.
Collaboration at the Heart of Progress
Savoldo’s expertise in enhancing cell function pairs seamlessly with Dotti’s focus on immunology, enabling UNC to produce millions of cancer-fighting cells on-site. This streamlined process ensures patients receive care faster and closer to home. Nearly 150 patients have participated in their clinical trials, and early results are inspiring.
“In our Hodgkin’s lymphoma trial, 60% of participants are now in remission,” shares Dr. Savoldo. “For some patients, this is their last option and seeing them thrive is remarkable.”
Every Step Forward
Drs. Savoldo and Dotti’s work reminds us that greatness isn’t found in just one big discovery, but in the countless small decisions and collaborations that bring hope to patients and families.
From inventive treatments to everyday care, UNC Health is dedicated to giving you more time — and more of the moments that enrich our lives.
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