Autologous neoantigen-specific T-cell therapy (Autologous T-cell therapy)

Autologous neoantigen-specific T-cell therapy is a form of adoptive cell transfer (ACT) where a patient's own T lymphocytes are isolated, expanded, and sometimes genetically modified to target unique mutations (neoantigens) or overexpressed proteins (tumor-associated antigens) found on their specific cancer cells. These T cells are typically primed or selected based on their ability to recognize peptides presented by Major Histocompatibility Complex (MHC) molecules, often facilitated by dendritic cell presentation during the manufacturing process. This approach aims to provide a highly personalized treatment that can overcome the immunosuppressive environment of the tumor. In clinical practice, this modality is used primarily for advanced solid tumors that have failed standard therapies. The process involves a lymphodepletion regimen followed by the infusion of the T cells, often accompanied by Interleukin-2 to support T-cell survival and expansion in vivo. While highly specific, the therapy faces challenges such as the heterogeneity of tumor antigen expression and the technical complexity of manufacturing a unique product for every patient. It represents a significant advancement in precision oncology, moving beyond generic treatments to target the specific molecular signature of an individual's malignancy.

Other names

Autologous T cells recognizing tumor-associated and neoantigen-derived peptidesNeoantigen-specific T cellsTumor-associated antigen-specific T cellsAdoptive T-cell therapyMulti-antigen specific T cellsACTologNeoTCR-T cell therapy

The therapy involves the infusion of a patient's own T cells that have been selected or engineered to recognize specific tumor-associated antigens (TAAs) or neoantigens presented by Major Histocompatibility Complex (MHC) molecules. Once infused, these T cells migrate to the tumor site, recognize the target peptides on the surface of cancer cells or dendritic cells, and execute a cytotoxic immune response leading to tumor cell lysis.