re-stimulated tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes

Re-stimulated tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes (TILs) represent an investigational autologous adoptive cell therapy (ACT) designed primarily for the treatment of platinum-resistant gynecological cancers, such as ovarian, fallopian tube, and primary peritoneal cancers. The therapy involves isolating T cells from a patient's own tumor tissue, followed by a large-scale ex vivo expansion. A distinguishing feature of this protocol, pioneered by researchers at the University Health Network and Herlev Hospital, is a final 24-hour "re-stimulation" step before infusion. During this phase, the expanded TILs are activated with an anti-CD3 monoclonal antibody (OKT3), interleukin-2 (IL-2), and autologous dendritic cells. This step is intended to maximize the metabolic activity and cytotoxic potential of the T cells. The clinical protocol typically includes lymphodepleting chemotherapy (e.g., cyclophosphamide) prior to infusion and low-dose IL-2 post-infusion to promote the persistence and activity of the transferred lymphocytes.

Other names

re-stimulated TILsautologous re-stimulated tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes