CAR T Cell Therapy: A New Hope for Pancreatic Cancer


Intro
Pancreatic cancer has gained notoriety as one of the hardest cancers to tackle. Its lethality often stems from late-stage diagnosis and a lack of effective treatment options. While traditional therapies like chemotherapy and radiation have been the mainstays, they often fall short against this resilient malignancy. As a response, scientists and clinicians are turning their attention towards innovative treatments—one such promising strategy is CAR T cell therapy.
This immunotherapy approach harnesses a patient’s own immune cells, reprogramming them to better recognize and attack cancer cells. With CAR T cell therapy, there’s a flicker of hope for patients grappling with pancreatic cancer, addressing both the unique biological challenges posed by this disease and the urgent need for more efficacious interventions.
As we delve deeper into this exploration, we’ll unveil the complexities of CAR T cell therapy in pancreatic cancer, from the gritty science behind it to the latest research findings. The goal here is to foster understanding and fuel the conversations between medical professionals, researchers, and learners.
Research Overview
Summary of Key Findings
The current landscape of research indicates that CAR T cell therapy has made substantial strides in recent years. Initial studies reveal that the therapy can induce objective responses in some patients with advanced pancreatic cancer, albeit the results have been inconsistent. The immune system's ability to target cancer cells is subject to various influences, including the cancer microenvironment, which can hinder the effectiveness of T cells.
Key findings from recent trials have emphasized:
- Variability in Response: Not all patients respond uniformly; factors such as tumor mutations and the immune landscape play critical roles in outcomes.
- Target Antigens: Studies are focusing on identifying specific proteins, such as mesothelin, that are overexpressed in pancreatic cancer. Targeting these can enhance the therapy's precision.
- Safety Profiles: While CAR T cell therapy has been generally well-tolerated, potential risks such as cytokine release syndrome and neurotoxicity need careful management.
Methodologies Employed
Research methodologies have varied widely, incorporating:
- Clinical Trials: Phase I and II trials, assessing both safety and efficacy of various CAR T designs.
- Bioinformatics: Analyzing genetic and proteomic data to guide the selection of target antigens and predict patient responses.
- Animal Models: Using murine models to study the effectiveness of CAR T cells in a controlled environment before transitioning to human subjects.
Understanding these facets is key to navigating the complexities of pancreatic cancer and the development of CAR T cell therapy.
In-Depth Analysis
Detailed Examination of Results
In-depth analyses of clinical outcomes suggest that CAR T cell therapy might provide some benefit in a subset of patients. Some trials have reported partial remissions in patients previously deemed as having few options left. However, the diversity in responses implies that while certain patients may experience significant benefits, others could see little to no improvement.
The most salient results indicate:
- A cohort of patients exhibiting notable reductions in tumor size after CAR T therapy, particularly when targeting mesothelin.
- Longer progression-free survival in those responding favorably, though this often requires subsequent therapies to maintain overall success.
Comparison with Previous Studies
When juxtaposing current findings against earlier studies, a nuanced narrative emerges. Initial attempts at CAR T therapies for other solid tumors faced bleak outcomes, often failing to demonstrate effectiveness due to the immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment. Recent research, however, indicates evolving strategies like dual-targeting approaches and combination therapies may improve efficacy.
This progression represents a shift in perspective, where collaborative research fosters the refinement of CAR T cell therapy, paving the way for future innovations tailored specifically for pancreatic cancer.
"In many respects, the journey of CAR T cell therapy from bench to bedside has been fraught with challenges but equally rich in lessons that could shape the future of immunotherapy in pancreatic cancer."
Prolusion to CAR T Cell Therapy
Understanding CAR T cell therapy is vital, especially when considering its application in the challenging context of pancreatic cancer. This treatment represents a significant advancement in cancer therapies, where traditional methods often fall short. CAR T cell therapy harnesses the power of the immune system, offering new hope for individuals grappling with this notorious malignancy. The therapy involves modifying a patient’s T cells to recognize and attack specific cancer cells, essentially flipping the script on how we approach treatment.
In the case of pancreatic cancer, which is known for its aggressive nature and poor prognosis, CAR T therapy could effectively turn the tide. Here, we will delve into the intricacies of this innovative approach, shedding light on its mechanisms, historical development, and implications.
Definition and Mechanism
At its core, CAR T cell therapy stands for Chimeric Antigen Receptor T cell therapy. It’s a form of immunotherapy that modifies a patient's T cells, a type of white blood cell pivotal in immune response. This modification involves a process where T cells are isolated from the patient’s blood, genetically engineered to express chimeric antigen receptors on their surface, and then multiplied in the lab before being infused back into the patient.
The significance of these receptors cannot be understated. They enable T cells to identify and bind to specific proteins, known as antigens, which are found on the surface of cancer cells. In the case of pancreatic cancer, researchers are investigating various antigens that are typically overexpressed in these tumor cells. When reintroduced into the body, these engineered T cells pursue and destroy the cancer cells they recognize, potentially leading to significant tumor reduction.


The efficacy of CAR T cell therapy relies heavily on the specificity and persistence of these modified cells in the patient’s body. The hope is that, unlike traditional therapies that may indiscriminately affect healthy cells, CAR T cells can hone in on cancer cells with precision, sparing normal tissue from damage.
History of CAR T Cell Development
The journey of CAR T cell therapy is a remarkable tale of scientific innovation and persistence. It began in the late 1980s when researchers first conceptualized the idea of genetically modifying T cells to fight cancer. The first clinical application emerged in the 1990s when scientists demonstrated that CAR T cells could target leukemia cells. This foundational breakthrough laid the groundwork for subsequent advancements.
Fast forward to the 21st century, and the field saw rapid progress. In 2017, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration approved the first CAR T cell therapy, known as Kymriah, for certain types of blood cancers. This milestone signaled not just a victory in hematology but also ignited interest in solid tumors, including pancreatic cancer.
As research evolved, so did the methodologies surrounding CAR T cell therapies, particularly those designed for solid tumors. Challenges exist due to the tumor microenvironment, where pancreatic cancer cells often create signals that inhibit immune responses. Nevertheless, ongoing trials are evaluating new strategies to enhance the effectiveness of CAR T cell therapy in these challenging scenarios.
"The potential of CAR T cell therapy in fighting cancer represents a paradigm shift in our approach to treatment, bringing renewed optimism amidst the dire statistics surrounding pancreatic cancer."
In essence, understanding CAR T cell therapy is pivotal, not only for grasping its scientific foundation but also for recognizing its transformative potential in the relentless battle against pancreatic cancer.
Pancreatic Cancer Overview
Pancreatic cancer is often viewed as one of the most formidable adversaries in oncology. With an alarming prognosis and a slow, often insidious progression, this malignancy showcases not only the complexity of malignancies as a whole but also underscores the urgent need for innovative treatment strategies, such as CAR T cell therapy. This section endeavors to detail pancreatic cancer more intimately, emphasizing its epidemiology, current treatment approaches, and the underlying genetic factors that contribute to its aggressive nature. These elements are crucial for understanding how CAR T cell therapy might be harnessed to combat this disease effectively.
Epidemiology and Statistics
Pancreatic cancer is not an uncommon diagnosis, and its occurrence is steadily on the rise. In 2023, an estimated 64,000 new cases are expected to be diagnosed in the United States alone, marking it among the top ten cancers by incidence. The disease is characterized by low five-year survival rates, often below 10%. Several factors, including age, family history, and lifestyle choices such as smoking and obesity, can heighten one’s risk of developing pancreatic cancer. Moreover, the demographics reveal a higher prevalence among African Americans compared to Caucasians, which raises concerns about health disparities that warrant attention.
The statistics tell part of the story, but the human cost is even more profound. > "The statistics represent real lives; each number is a person affected by the disease, battling both the illness and its implications on their lives and families."
Current Treatment Landscape
The treatment of pancreatic cancer remains a challenging venture. Surgical resection, often dubbed the best chance for a cure, is applicable in only about 20% of cases due to late-stage diagnosis. The most common surgical procedure is the Whipple procedure, aimed at removing the head of the pancreas along with surrounding tissues. However, even with surgery, the likelihood of recurrence is high, leading to a search for adjuvant treatments.
Chemotherapy remains the mainstay of treatment, particularly with regimens like FOLFIRINOX or gemcitabine combined with nab-paclitaxel. While these methods often prolong survival, they do not constitute a cure and can come with debilitating side effects. Radiation therapy also plays a role but it is largely used in combination with other modalities, rather than as a standalone treatment. Thus, with the limitations of existing options, there's an increasingly resonant call for therapies that leverage the immune system, like CAR T cell therapy.
Genetic and Molecular Features
Understanding the genetic framework surrounding pancreatic cancer is vital for developing targeted therapies. Most pancreatic tumors harbor mutations in critical genes such as KRAS, which is found in more than 90% of cases. Other mutations include TP53, CDKN2A, and SMAD4, all of which contribute to the aggressiveness of the cancer and its ability to elude therapeutic approaches.
Researchers are increasingly focused on the tumor microenvironment, recognizing how it interacts with tumor cells and immune responses. The dense stroma surrounding pancreatic tumors also serves as a protective niche, complicating treatment efforts. By comprehensively mapping these genetic and molecular profiles, scientists are not only uncovering insights into tumor biology but also identifying potential therapeutic targets for CAR T cells, hoping to tilt the odds in favor of patients battling this dread disease.
The Intersection of CAR T and Pancreatic Cancer
This section highlights the crucial confluence of CAR T cell therapy and pancreatic cancer, an area where emerging research is drawing significant attention. Combining cutting-edge immunotherapy with a notoriously difficult malignancy presents both potential advancements and unique challenges. Understanding this intersection is vital not only for medical professionals but also for those engaged in research and education about innovative cancer treatments.
Potential Benefits of CAR T Cell Therapy
The promise of CAR T cell therapy in treating pancreatic cancer lies in its ability to harness the body’s immune system to specifically target cancer cells. Unlike conventional therapies, which often affect healthy tissues as well, CAR T cells can be engineered to recognize and attack specific antigens present on the surface of pancreatic cancer cells. This targeted approach can lead to:
- Increased Efficacy: By specifically targeting cancer cells, CAR T therapy may reduce off-target effects seen with traditional treatments, leading to better patient outcomes.
- Customized Treatment Options: As CAR T cell therapy evolves, there is potential for creating personalized treatment plans based on individual genetic profiles, improving patient responses.
- Sustained Immune Response: Once activated, CAR T cells can persist in the body and continue to combat residual cancer cells, potentially reducing the likelihood of recurrence.
Moreover, clinical observations have noted that some pancreatic cancer patients have experienced significant tumor reduction or stable disease status following CAR T cell therapy, indicating a step forward in addressing this aggressive cancer type.
Current Research Initiatives
Numerous research initiatives are underway to explore the feasibility and effectiveness of CAR T cell therapy for pancreatic cancer. Some of the notable efforts include:
- Clinical Trials: Institutions like John Hopkins University and the University of Pennsylvania have initiated trials focusing on engineered T cells uniquely designed to attack pancreatic tumor markers. These trials aim to assess the safety and efficacy of such treatments in real-world scenarios.
- Combination Therapies: Researchers are investigating the potential synergy of CAR T therapy combined with other treatment modalities, such as chemotherapy or checkpoint inhibitors. This approach aims to enhance overall effectiveness by addressing various mechanisms of tumor resistance.
- Development of Novel Antigens: A critical area of focus is the identification of specific targets that can be leveraged for CAR T cell engineering. One promising avenue involves exploring tumor-associated antigens that are distinctly expressed in pancreatic cancer. The hope is that by targeting these unique traits, CAR T cells can become even more adept at recognizing and eradicating cancer cells.
These ongoing investigations are pivotal in paving the way for FDA-approved therapies for pancreatic cancer, an outcome that could significantly alter the prognosis for patients who have limited options.


Challenges in Application
Despite its promise, the application of CAR T cell therapy in pancreatic cancer faces notable hurdles that require careful consideration:
- Immunosuppressive Tumor Microenvironment: The pancreatic tumor milieu is particularly hostile to immune responses. Factors like hypoxia and cytokines can inhibit T cell activity, making it a tough environment for CAR T cells to thrive.
- Targeting Unique Antigens: Finding effective antigens that exclusively mark pancreatic cancer cells is challenging. Many potential targets also exist on healthy cells, leading to concerns over potential collateral damage.
- Management of Side Effects: While CAR T cell therapy can lead to remarkable responses, patients may experience severe side effects, including cytokine release syndrome. This level of complication necessitates rigorous monitoring and management strategies during treatment.
Despite these obstacles, researchers remain undeterred. Determining novel strategies to overcome these barriers is essential to realize the full potential of CAR T cell therapy in managing pancreatic cancer.
"Addressing the intersection of CAR T therapy and pancreatic cancer could be a game-changer in oncology, paving the way for innovative treatments that fundamentally alter patient outcomes."
Overall, bridging the gap between CAR T cell therapy and pancreatic cancer represents a dynamic field of research that holds great promise and challenges, necessitating a multifaceted approach to unlock its potential.
Clinical Trials and Research Findings
Understanding clinical trials and research findings is crucial when evaluating the potential of CAR T cell therapy for pancreatic cancer. Clinical trials serve as the backbone of medical research, providing the necessary framework to assess the safety and effectiveness of new treatments. In the case of pancreatic cancer, a disease notoriously known for its resistance to conventional therapies, the exploration of innovative approaches like CAR T cell therapy not only holds promise but highlights the urgent need for discovery in a therapeutic landscape that has seen minimal success over the years.
Overview of Existing Trials
As of now, several pivotal trials have emerged, aiming to tailor CAR T cell therapy specifically for pancreatic malignancies. These trials often focus on multiple tumor-associated antigens, such as mesothelin and prostate stem cell antigen, found to be expressed in pancreatic tumors. For instance:
- NCT03194399: This trial investigates the use of CAR T cells targeting mesothelin in patients with treatment-refractory pancreatic cancer. Results have pointed to a handful of patients experiencing prolonged progression-free survival, marking a significant shift in the treatment paradigm.
- NCT03616856: A promising interventional study using CAR T cells engineered to target a wide spectrum of antigens on pancreatic adenocarcinoma. Early results reveal manageable toxicity levels with strong initial responses.
These clinical trials are shedding light on the safety profiles and early efficacy of CAR T cell therapy, thus acting as critical steps in moving from conceptual frameworks to clinical realities. The unfortunate reality, however, is that many trials face hurdles such as slow recruitment due to the specific criteria for participant selection.
Notable Case Studies
Delving into notable case studies provides a unique glimpse into the transformative power that CAR T cell therapy could potentially bestow on pancreatic cancer patients. These individual narratives often embody the hope that statistical outcomes may not fully capture:
"The success of CAR T therapy cannot only be measured in statistical outcomes, but also in the lives of patients who experience meaningful responses."
One such case involved a 64-year-old male diagnosed with metastatic pancreatic cancer, who had exhausted all available treatment options. After receiving CAR T cell therapy targeting mesothelin, this patient achieved a near-complete response, reducing the tumor size significantly within just a few months.
Another intriguing case is a 50-year-old female diagnosed at an advanced stage. Undergoing a clinical trial utilizing a dual-targeting CAR T cell approach, this patient experienced stabilization of her disease for over six months, a feat rarely observed with conventional therapies. These cases not only illuminate the potential that lies ahead but also portray the crucial role of personalized therapy in this complex disease.
Immunosuppression and Tumor Microenvironment
Understanding the interplay between immunosuppression and the tumor microenvironment is vital in the context of CAR T cell therapy for pancreatic cancer. This connection underscores the challenges the treatment faces and offers insights into potential strategies to improve patient outcomes.
Understanding Pancreatic Cancer Immunology
The immune system plays a dual role in pancreatic cancer: while it can recognize and destroy tumor cells, the cancer can also suppress immune responses, creating a hostile environment for immune therapies. Pancreatic cancer is notorious for its ability to evade the immune response. Several factors contribute to this immunosuppression, including the presence of myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSCs), regulatory T cells, and immune checkpoint molecules which can turn a robust immune attack against the cancer into a mere whisper.
The tumor microenvironment in pancreatic cancer is highly immunosuppressive, characterized by a dense fibrotic stroma that creates physical barriers to T cell infiltration. Moreover, tumor-associated macrophages can release various cytokines and enzymes, further promoting a protective niche for the cancerous cells. This dynamic leads to a situation where, despite the existence of a potentially powerful CAR T cell therapy, its effectiveness is significantly hampered by the existing immunosuppression.
"In the game between the immune system and cancer, pancreatic cancer plays its cards close to the vest, making it a fierce opponent."
Barriers to Effective Immunotherapy
The barriers that pancreatic cancer presents are layered and multifaceted. Here are some primary challenges:
- Stromal Barriers: The thick fibrous tissue surrounding pancreatic tumors is not just physical; it significantly limits the penetration and efficacy of CAR T cells.
- Immune Checkpoint Regulation: The tumor can exploit pathways such as PD-1/PD-L1 interactions, leading to T cell exhaustion and diminishing their capacity to attack tumors effectively.
- Cytokine Environment: Elevated levels of immunosuppressive cytokines, like transforming growth factor-beta (TGF-β), further suppress immune activity and hinder CAR T cell functionality.
- Lack of Tumor Antigen Diversity: Pancreatic tumors often lack unique antigens that could be targeted effectively by CAR T cells, posing a significant hurdle in designing personalized treatments.
Future Directions in CAR T Cell Therapy
The exploration of CAR T cell therapy as a treatment for pancreatic cancer is just beginning to scratch the surface of its potential. With pancreatic cancer being particularly stubborn and resistant to traditional treatments, the future holds promise for innovative strategies. This section dives into how CAR T cell therapy can evolve and adapt, addressing both its benefits and some key considerations that specialists and researchers need to keep in mind.


Innovative Approaches and Combinations
The canvas for CAR T cell therapy is ever-expanding, with researchers pursuing numerous innovative approaches aimed at enhancing its effectiveness against pancreatic cancer. One such approach is modifying CAR T cells to improve their targeting capabilities. For example, scientists are experimenting with dual-targeted CAR T cells, which can recognize two distinct tumor antigens, potentially increasing the specificity and reducing off-target effects. This could lead to more effective tumor eradication while sparing healthy cells, a paramount concern in treating cancers that often impact vital tissues indiscriminately.
Another line of investigation includes combining CAR T therapy with checkpoint inhibitors like Pembrolizumab or Nivolumab. Checkpoint inhibitors work by "taking the brakes off" the immune system, hence enhancing the CAR T cells’ ability to function optimally even in the challenging immune suppressive environment of pancreatic cancer.
Moreover, researchers are also looking into the utilization of oncolytic viruses—viruses that selectively infect and kill tumor cells—as concurrent therapies. This combination aims not just to attack the cancer but also to amplify the body's immune response, opening the floodgates for a more robust immune assault against the tumor.
Personalized Medicine and CAR T
Personalized medicine is rapidly transforming the landscape of medical treatments, and CAR T cell therapy is no exception. Tailoring treatment to an individual’s specific genetic and molecular characteristics holds tremendous promise. The genetic profiling of tumors can inform which CAR T cell designs may be most effective. For instance, certain patients may harbor unique mutations that make them suitable candidates for targeted CAR T therapies, while others may have recurrent mutations dictating different therapeutic strategies.
The ability to customize CAR T cell therapy based on individual tumor characteristics allows clinicians not just to maximize effectiveness but also minimizes potential adverse effects. Moreover, the development of personalized CAR T cells—engineered to specifically target the patient’s unique tumor markers—could substantially improve clinical outcomes.
As we look towards the horizon, there’s a pressing need to engage patients in the conversation. Empowering patients with knowledge of their treatment options fosters a more collaborative atmosphere, where healthcare professionals and patients work hand-in-hand to navigate treatment pathways.
"The future of CAR T cell therapy in pancreatic cancer hinges on innovative adaptability and personalization, underscoring the interplay between science and patient care."
Overall, the forward momentum in CAR T cell therapy showcases a vibrant landscape full of potential that prioritizes both cutting-edge research and patient-centered approaches. With continuous scientific advancements, the hope is that these treatments will become more effective, opening new avenues for pancreatic cancer patients who desperately need options.
Ethical Considerations and Patient Perspectives
In the unfolding landscape of CAR T cell therapy, particularly as it engages with the tenacious nature of pancreatic cancer, ethical facets rise to the fore. These considerations extend into the rights, dignity, and perspectives of patients, as well as the moral obligations of healthcare providers and researchers. Understanding these dimensions is vital not merely for the integrity of clinical trials, but also for fostering trust within the patient community, which is crucial for the acceptance and success of emerging therapies.
Ethical Implications of CAR T Therapy
When it comes to CAR T cell therapy, several ethical implications come to the forefront. First off, the issue of consent cannot be overstated. Patients must be fully informed not just about the therapy but also about its potential risks and benefits. This includes understanding what inadequate results might entail.
- Informed Consent: Ensuring that patients comprehend the complexities of CAR T therapy is fundamental. It’s not just about signing a consent form; it’s a conversation that warrants clarity and transparency.
- Risk vs. Benefit: CAR T therapy can offer hope where traditional therapies fail, yet it may come with significant risks including severe side effects. Patients should weigh these factors carefully, and clinicians should facilitate this process thoughtfully.
Moreover, there’s the matter of accessibility. With pancreatic cancer being one of the most lethal malignancies, who gets to access cutting-edge treatments like CAR T? Ensuring equitable distribution of these novel therapies remains a significant ethical concern. If only a select few can afford or qualify for CAR T treatment, it can exacerbate existing inequalities in healthcare, a bitter pill for many.
Lastly, the long-term effects of CAR T therapy also raise ethical questions. With survival rates being a focal point, the longer-term impacts on quality of life, physical health, and mental well-being of patients are vital inquiries that require ongoing research and dialogue.
Patient Support and Education
Patient support and education are integral components in the realm of CAR T cell therapy. A well-informed patient is not only empowered but also able to navigate the complexities of their treatment more effectively.
- Educational Programs: Institutions conducting CAR T trials often run information sessions aimed at demystifying the process for patients and their families. These programs clarify the science behind CAR T and what patients might expect.
- Peer Support Groups: Connecting with others who are going through similar experiences can provide emotional solace and practical tips. Support groups facilitate a shared understanding and provide critical information that might not be readily available through formal channels.
Moreover, considering the multifaceted nature of pancreatic cancer, it’s vital that education considers psychological aspects as well. Stress and anxiety can be overwhelming; hence addressing these issues within educational content can benefit patients markedly.
Closure and Key Takeaways
As we wrap up this comprehensive exploration of CAR T cell therapy in the context of pancreatic cancer, we can’t understate the importance of this discussion. The findings presented throughout emphasize not only the potential benefits of CAR T cell therapy but also the stark challenges presented by this particularly aggressive form of cancer. While designed to empower the immune system to combat malignancies, the adaptation of CAR T therapy to treat pancreatic cancer appears, at this point, to be a double-edged sword.
Summary of Findings
Throughout the article, we’ve traversed the complex landscape of pancreatic cancer and examined how CAR T cell therapy operates at a cellular level. Here are some key findings that stand out:
- Immune System Engagement: CAR T cells are engineered to specifically target cancer cells, and this specificity represents a major advantage in treating tumors, including those in the pancreas.
- Current Research Trends: Many ongoing clinical trials are shedding light on how to enhance CAR T cell efficacy in pancreatic cancer, as opposed to more typical hematologic malignancies.
- Challenging Microenvironment: The unique microenvironment of pancreatic tumors poses significant barriers to effective CAR T therapy, necessitating innovative strategies in overcoming these obstacles.
- Patient Perspectives: Including patients in discussions surrounding treatment options is crucial, as their insights influence the research trajectory and ethical considerations.
"Bringing together the worlds of cutting-edge technology and compassionate healthcare is the future of cancer treatment."
Implications for Future Research
The future looks promising yet challenging for CAR T cell therapy in the realm of pancreatic cancer. Here are some implications for future research that could pave the way for breakthroughs in how we tackle this disease:
- Combining Therapies: It may be beneficial to explore combinations of CAR T therapy with chemotherapy or checkpoint inhibitors. This could potentially create a more conducive environment for T cells to function and proliferate effectively.
- Inducing Immune Modulation: Research could focus on developing strategies to modulate the tumor microenvironment. This would help in breaking the immunosuppressive barriers that hinder CAR T cells from successfully targeting pancreatic cancer cells.
- Biomarker Development: Identifying reliable biomarkers could transform patient selection criteria, enabling a more customized approach to therapy.
- Long-Term Follow-Up Studies: Longitudinal studies focusing on the long-term effectiveness and safety of CAR T therapies are needed to understand better their potential and limitations in real-world scenarios.
In summary, the discourse around CAR T cell therapy and its application to pancreatic cancer is not merely an academic endeavor; it is a crucial consideration for the future of oncological treatments. The need for rigorous research, ethical discourse, and patient-centered care must guide the upcoming phases of exploration in this field.