third-party cytomegalovirus-specific cytotoxic T lymphocytes

Third-party cytomegalovirus-specific cytotoxic T lymphocytes (CMV-CTLs) are an allogeneic, "off-the-shelf" cell-based immunotherapy used to treat refractory cytomegalovirus (CMV) infections and disease in patients following allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT). The therapy consists of banked T cells derived from healthy third-party donors who are partially HLA-matched to the recipient. These T cells are sensitized ex vivo to CMV-specific antigens, primarily the pp65 protein, enabling them to recognize and eliminate CMV-infected cells. Clinical evidence suggests that infusion of these cells not only provides direct antiviral activity but also stimulates the reconstitution of the recipient's endogenous CMV-specific immunity, leading to sustained viral control. This approach offers a rapid treatment option for patients who lack a virus-immune transplant donor or require urgent therapy.

Other names

third-party CMV-CTLsoff-the-shelf CMV-CTLsbanked CMV-specific T cells