Autologous T cells are gene-modified to express a CD19-specific chimeric antigen receptor. Binding to CD19 on malignant B cells triggers CAR signaling, activating cytotoxic functions (e.g., perforin/granzyme release and cytokine production) to kill target cells. Metabolic armoring is included to enhance T-cell metabolic fitness, expansion, and persistence in the tumor microenvironment.