allogeneic Epstein-Barr virus-specific cytotoxic T lymphocytes

This investigational allogeneic cell-based immunotherapy is being developed by Nantes University Hospital for the treatment of Epstein-Barr virus (EBV)-associated lymphoma, particularly in patients who are immunodeficient or have undergone bone marrow or organ transplantation. The therapy consists of donor-derived (allogeneic) cytotoxic T lymphocytes (CTLs) that have been specifically sensitized to recognize and target EBV antigens. These T cells are designed to identify and destroy EBV-infected B-cells by recognizing viral proteins presented on the tumor cell surface, thereby providing an exogenous immune response to control the malignancy. By utilizing an allogeneic approach, the therapy can be prepared from healthy donors and administered as an 'off-the-shelf' or bank-derived product to patients whose own immune systems are unable to mount an effective response against the virus. It is currently being evaluated in Phase 1 clinical trials to assess safety, potential side effects such as graft-versus-host disease (GvHD), and preliminary clinical efficacy.

Other names

allogeneic EBV-specific CTLsallogeneic EBV-CTLEBV-specific cytotoxic T lymphocytes