Johnson & Johnson discontinues CD20 mono and CD19–CD20 CAR-T programs (JNJ-90014496) in relapsed/refractory LBCL, citing portfolio reprioritization and evolving treatment landscape.
Written By: Pharmacally Medical News Desk
Johnson & Johnson has decided to discontinue development of its investigational CD20 mono CAR-T cell therapy and CD19–CD20 bi-CAR-T (JNJ-90014496) programs for relapsed or refractory large B-cell lymphoma (LBCL).
Both programs were evaluated in early-phase clinical trials. JNJ-90014496, an investigational dual-target CD19/CD20 CAR-T therapy, was studied in a global Phase 1b/2 trial (NCT05421663) in patients with relapsed or refractory large B-cell lymphoma. In parallel, a CD20-directed mono CAR-T program was assessed in a Phase 1 study. Both approaches aimed to expand CAR-T strategies beyond CD19-only targeting and address antigen escape–mediated relapse.
The decision follows a strategic reassessment of portfolio priorities and reflects changes in the LBCL treatment landscape, including increased availability of later-line CAR-T therapies and non-cell therapy options. While early-phase data showed clinical activity with manageable safety profiles, the company has opted to reallocate resources toward other oncology programs with higher strategic priority, including solid tumors and earlier-line hematologic settings.
Patients currently enrolled in ongoing trials will continue treatment and follow-up according to study protocols. The company confirmed that patient support measures remain in place to ensure continuity of care during the transition.
Johnson & Johnson reiterated its focus on advancing a broader oncology pipeline, prioritizing programs with the greatest potential to improve patient outcomes and generate clinically meaningful data.
Reference
Johnson & Johnson statement on investigational programs in large B-cell lymphoma