interleukin-2 + CD40 ligand

Interleukin-2 + CD40 ligand refers to an experimental autologous cell-based vaccine therapy designed for the treatment of hematologic malignancies, including B-cell chronic lymphocytic leukemia (B-CLL), acute myeloid leukemia (AML), and acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL). The therapeutic approach involves genetically modifying patient-derived cells—either the malignant blasts themselves or syngeneic fibroblasts—to express human CD40 ligand (CD40L) and human interleukin-2 (IL-2). CD40L serves as a potent costimulatory molecule that binds to the CD40 receptor on leukemic cells and dendritic cells, enhancing their antigen-presenting capabilities and up-regulating MHC and costimulatory molecules like B7.1. Concurrently, the secretion of IL-2 promotes the proliferation, survival, and activation of cytotoxic T cells and natural killer (NK) cells. This dual-mechanism strategy is intended to overcome tumor-induced immune evasion and generate a robust, systemic antileukemic immune response. Clinical evaluation has primarily occurred in Phase I settings, demonstrating the feasibility and safety of the approach in patients with high-risk disease.

Other names

IL-2/CD40L vaccinerecipient-derived tumor vaccineautologous cell vaccine expressing IL-2 and CD40L