Here's What Could Replace Chemotherapy

What could replace chemotherapy?In this episode of Beyond the Rounds, we explore cellular therapy, CAR-T cell therapy, tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes (TIL), and how modern immunotherapy is reshaping cancer treatment. Dr. Nolan Fisher sits down with hematologist and cellular therapy specialist Dr. Yazan Samhouri of Banner MD Anderson Cancer Center to break down how immune-based cancer treatments differ from traditional chemotherapy — and why the “last resort” label for CAR-T is quickly becoming outdated.This episode is designed for physicians, advanced practice providers, and clinicians who want a practical understanding of where cellular therapies fit in today’s oncology landscape.What We Cover:• The difference between chemotherapy, immunotherapy, and cellular therapy• How CAR-T cell therapy works (Chimeric Antigen Receptor T-cells explained)• Tumor-infiltrating lymphocyte (TIL) therapy for solid tumors• Stem cell transplant vs. CAR-T — complementary or competing?• Cytokine release syndrome (CRS) and neurologic toxicity• Patient selection and referral timing• Why earlier referral matters in relapsed/refractory disease• Next-generation CAR-T and multi-antigen targeting• Off-the-shelf cellular therapies and the future of accessKey Topics for Clinicians:Hematologic malignanciesLymphoma and leukemiaMetastatic melanomaRelapsed/refractory cancerBridging therapy during CAR-T manufacturingFDA-approved immunotherapiesCancer clinical trialsMultidisciplinary cancer careAbout Our GuestDr. Yazan Samhouri is a specialist in hematology and cellular therapy at Banner MD Anderson Cancer Center. His clinical focus includes CAR-T therapy, stem cell transplantation, and advanced immunotherapeutic approaches for blood cancers and select solid tumors.DisclaimerThis podcast is intended for educational purposes only and is designed for a clinical audience. Any patient scenarios discussed are modified and de-identified to protect privacy. No protected health information (PHI) is disclosed. The information presented should not replace independent medical judgment or individualized patient care decisions.Subscribe to Beyond the Rounds for physician-focused conversations on clinical innovation, specialty collaboration, and evolving standards of care.