Is the Cure for Cancer Right in Our Lap? Charlie Kirk/Dr. Patrick Soon-Shiong - 6/3/2025

Cancer rates among young people are surging — but why? Dr. Patrick Soon-Shiong owns the Los Angeles Times, but is also an experienced cancer doctor who has spent years investigating the rise of these "turbocancers." But don't despair. Dr. Soon-Shiong thinks he knows the secret to beating cancer once and for all. He joins Charlie for a wide-ranging discussion that is one of our most interesting medical episodes ever.
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Dr. Patrick Soon-Shiong's BioShield is a concept developed by his company, ImmunityBio, that focuses on protecting and activating the immune system to fight cancer and infectious diseases. It involves a T-cell-based approach, leveraging technologies like ANKTIVA and other immunotherapy platforms to boost the body's natural defense mechanisms.

Key aspects of Dr. Soon-Shiong's BioShield:

Focus on Lymphocytes:
The BioShield aims to protect and restore lymphocytes, particularly natural killer (NK) and T cells, which are crucial for fighting cancer and infections.

Addressing Lymphopenia:
Conventional cancer treatments like chemotherapy and radiation can suppress the immune system, leading to lymphopenia (loss of lymphocytes). BioShield seeks to address this issue by activating and protecting NK and T cells.

ANKTIVA and other platforms:
ANKTIVA, an FDA-approved therapy, and other immunotherapy platforms are used to stimulate the immune system and create "long-term immunological memory".

Universal Cancer Vaccine:
ImmunityBio is working towards a universal cancer vaccine that utilizes its platforms to protect individuals from cancer.

Broad Applications:
The BioShield concept is being explored for its potential in treating various cancers, as well as infectious diseases like COVID-19.

In essence, Dr. Soon-Shiong's BioShield is a strategy to harness the power of the immune system to fight diseases, rather than suppressing it with conventional treatments.