cytomegalovirus-specific cytotoxic T lymphocytes (University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center)

Cytomegalovirus-specific cytotoxic T lymphocytes (CMV-CTLs) are a form of adoptive cell therapy used for preventing and treating cytomegalovirus (CMV) infections in immunocompromised patients, particularly following hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) or solid organ transplantation. These are T cells that specifically target and eliminate cells infected with CMV. The therapy involves isolating, selecting, and sometimes expanding CMV-specific T cells from a donor (either the original transplant donor or a third-party donor) and infusing them into the recipient to provide immediate antiviral immunity. CMV-CTLs can penetrate the blood-brain barrier and blood vitreous barrier, making them effective against CMV infections in the central nervous system and retina.

Other names

CMV Cytotoxic T-LymphocytesCMV-specific cytotoxic T lymphocytesCMV-CTLsCMV-specific CTLsCMV CTLs