A newly released explainer video introduces Adverse Outcome Pathways (AOPs) as a concept to better understand immune-related adverse effects and improve the prediction of drug safety. The video explains how AOPs link molecular initiating events to key biological events at different levels, ultimately connecting them to clinical outcomes.
Using CAR‑T cell therapy as an example, the video illustrates how immune activation can lead to a cytokine release syndrome. It shows how antigen recognition triggers a cascade of immune signals that may result in severe inflammatory responses.
The video further highlights how combining biological knowledge with human‑based models, particularly tissue models, supports the analysis of immune side effects, the development of biomarkers and the prediction of adverse effects. These approaches aim to improve immune safety assessment and contribute to the development of therapies that are effective while minimizing unwanted side effects.
To access the video, please visit our project publications section.