autologous synovial T cells

Autologous synovial T cells refer to a cell therapy approach in which T lymphocytes are isolated from the synovial fluid or tissue of an individual patient, typically with rheumatoid arthritis (RA), and then manipulated ex vivo for therapeutic use. In clinical research, these autologous synovial T cells have been selected for their pathological relevance, rendered inactive by irradiation, and re-administered to the same patient as a form of "T cell vaccination." The goal is to induce regulatory immune responses—specifically expansion of CD4+ IL-10-secreting regulatory T cells (Tregs) and cytotoxic CD8+ T cells—that can suppress pathogenic autoreactive immune responses in RA. This approach aims to restore immune tolerance and reduce disease activity by targeting disease-driving autoreactive clones[1].