autologous EBV-targeted cytotoxic T lymphocytes

Autologous EBV-targeted cytotoxic T lymphocytes (CTLs) are a personalized cell therapy generated by isolating a patient's peripheral blood lymphocytes and expanding those that are specifically reactive against Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) antigens, particularly those expressed in malignant cells such as nasopharyngeal carcinoma or post-transplant lymphoproliferative disorder (PTLD)[1][2][3][6]. The therapy relies on CD8+ T lymphocytes that recognize EBV-derived antigens—including latent membrane protein 2 (LMP2)—on the surface of tumor cells, leading to targeted cytotoxic activity and elimination of EBV-associated malignancies[1][2][3][6]. This highly individualized immunotherapy is produced by stimulating the patient's lymphocytes ex vivo with autologous EBV-transformed B-lymphoblastoid cell lines, and then infusing the expanded CTLs intravenously back into the patient[1][2]. The primary indications demonstrated in clinical trials include refractory nasopharyngeal carcinoma and prevention/treatment of EBV-positive lymphoproliferative disease after transplantation[1][2][3]. Toxicity is generally mild, and responses have included disease stabilization and partial or complete remission in multiple studies[1][2][3][6].

Other names

autologous EBV-specific CTLsautologous EBV-specific cytotoxic T lymphocytesautologous virus-specific cytotoxic T lymphocytesautologous EBVSTsautologous EBV-CTLs