CD40 ligand-augmented tumor infiltrating lymphocytes

CD40 ligand-augmented tumor infiltrating lymphocytes (CD40L-TIL) represent an advanced form of adoptive cell therapy (ACT) where autologous T cells, harvested directly from a patient's tumor, are genetically engineered to express the CD40 ligand (CD154). Standard TIL therapy involves the ex vivo expansion of these naturally occurring anti-tumor T cells followed by re-infusion; however, its efficacy can be limited by the immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment and poor T-cell persistence. By engineering TILs to express CD40L, the therapy aims to provide a potent co-stimulatory signal to CD40-expressing antigen-presenting cells (APCs), such as dendritic cells, within the tumor. This interaction promotes APC maturation, enhances antigen presentation, and triggers a broader endogenous immune response (epitope spreading). Some versions of this therapy also include genetic modification to secrete IL-2, further supporting T-cell growth and survival without the need for high-dose systemic IL-2 administration. This approach is primarily being investigated for the treatment of metastatic melanoma and other solid tumors.

Other names

CD40L-augmented TILsCD-40L-augmented TILsCD 40L-augmented TILsCD40 ligand-expressing tumor-infiltrating lymphocytesCD-40 ligand-expressing tumor-infiltrating lymphocytesCD 40 ligand-expressing tumor-infiltrating lymphocytesCD40L-modified TILsCD-40L-modified TILsCD 40L-modified TILs