ABSTRACT
BACKGROUND: For decades cancer remained the center of attention in the scientific community as its survival rates are low. Researchers from all around the world wanted to know the core of the problem as to what initiates cancer in a patient and helps with its progression. Many postulations came to light, but Cancer Stem Cells (CSC) was the most appealing and convincing. MAIN BODY: In this review, we shed light on a potential solution to the problem by reviewing CAR-T cells (Chimeric antigen receptor T cells). These specialized T cells are designed to detect specific antigens on cancer cells. We analyse the steps of their formation from the collection of T cells from the patient's bloodstream and modifying it to exhibit specific CAR structures on their surfaces, to reinjecting them back and evaluating their efficacy. We thoroughly investigate the structure of the CAR design with improvements across different generations. The focus extends to the unique properties of CSCs as in how targeting specific markers on them can enhance the precision of cancer therapy. CONCLUSION: Despite the successes, the review discusses the existing limitations and toxicities associated with CAR-derived therapies, highlighting the ongoing need for research and refinement. Looking ahead, we explore proposed strategies aimed at optimizing CAR-T cell therapy to mitigate adverse effects for improved cancer treatments.