autologous HIV-specific CD8+ cytotoxic T cells

Autologous HIV-specific CD8+ cytotoxic T cells is a cellular adoptive immunotherapy developed by the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID) for the treatment of HIV infection. The therapeutic process involves isolating CD8+ T cells from an HIV-seropositive individual, expanding them in vitro to enhance their specificity and number against HIV-infected cells, and then re-infusing them into the patient. This therapy is typically administered in combination with aldesleukin (interleukin-2) to promote the expansion, survival, and persistence of the infused T cells. The mechanism of action relies on the ability of these cytotoxic T lymphocytes (CTLs) to recognize viral antigens presented on the surface of infected cells via their native T-cell receptors and subsequently eliminate them, thereby aiming to reduce the viral reservoir and enhance the patient's immune response to HIV.

Other names

Adoptive transfer of HIV-specific CD8+ T cellsHIV-specific CD8+ T cellsAutologous HIV-Specific CD8+ T Cells