Nomenclature for Cellular and Genetic Therapies: A Need for Standardization

Abstract

As the field of cellular and genetic therapies transitions from a scientific concept to a clinical reality, it has become evident that there are several conflicting or imprecise nomenclatures to describe these novel therapeutic products. The lack of uniformity and accuracy in the terminology often creates regulatory, educational, administrative, and billing quagmires. Standardization of the nomenclature for these therapeutic products is essential for creation of a harmonized regulatory and developmental framework, development of training paradigms and educational programs, equitable and rational decisions about accessibility, and consistency in the billing and coding structures used for reimbursement. Here we propose an updated framework as a foundation for categorizing these cell-based and genetically modified therapies.

Keywords: Cellular therapy; Gene therapy; Immune effector cell therapy.