Bruce Levine is a pioneer in cancer Immunotherapy and together with Carl June at UPENN/PENNMEDICINE in Philadelphia performed the first CAR-T cell therapies in patients with CLL in 2011. This was possible only after many years of experimental work, persistence and belief in a unique and exciting therapy. He describes this journey as follow “In the 1990s and early 2000s, it was seen as something boutique of ‘isn’t that quaint,’ and ‘interesting, but it’s never going to work.’ This idea of redirecting T cells or immune cells was groundbreaking. NIH grant reviewers saw it as a totally different paradigm than they were used to, and many comments were not kind. Since these early steps, CAR-T cells targeting CD19 and BCMA have received regulatory approvals around the world in ALL, CLL and NHL after relapse.  Many other CAR T therapies, including for solid tumors, are in development. He has published several groundbreaking publications, is past-president of ISCT and was awarded to many prestigious prizes, the last one just a months ago.
Dietger Niederwieser conducted an interview with Bruce on the history of CAR-T cells.
Recently he has partnered with an internationally acclaimed Irish country music artist Mags McCarthy , who has released her most heartfelt and powerful single yet, “Ring That Bell”. In an unexpected and moving collaboration, Mags has partnered with world-renowned scientist Dr. Bruce Levine to co-write a song that gives voice to cancer warriors and celebrates breakthroughs in treatment that are changing lives.

“Ring That Bell” tells the emotional story of a cancer patient facing relapse and the fierce advocacy, support, and groundbreaking science that offer new hope. At its heart is the powerful symbolism of ringing the bell—a tradition in many cancer centers marking key milestones like the end of treatment, good news, or moments of gratitude and encouragement.  The music video is here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dkOrbjMz3zQ. An exciting production for physicians, nurses and patients.