Cytomegalovirus-specific T cell (CMV-VST)

Cytomegalovirus-specific T cells (CMV-VSTs) are a specialized population of the adaptive immune system, primarily consisting of CD8+ cytotoxic T lymphocytes and CD4+ helper T cells that recognize antigens derived from the human cytomegalovirus (HCMV) [1, 14]. These cells play a critical role in maintaining viral latency and preventing symptomatic disease by identifying and destroying CMV-infected cells that present viral peptides, such as pp65 and IE1, on their surface via major histocompatibility complex (MHC) molecules [3, 15]. In immunocompromised patients, such as those undergoing hematopoietic stem cell or solid organ transplantation, the loss or delay of CMV-specific T-cell immunity leads to viral reactivation and severe complications [6, 12]. Consequently, CMV-specific T cells are utilized as an adoptive cellular therapy to restore immunity and treat refractory infections [4, 13]. Beyond infectious disease, these cells are being investigated for their potential to target CMV antigens expressed in certain malignancies, notably glioblastoma [2, 10].

Other names

CMV-specific T cellCMV-VSTCMV-CTLCytomegalovirus-specific cytotoxic T lymphocyteCytomegalovirus-specific CD8+ T cellCytomegalovirus-specific immune system

Cytomegalovirus-specific T cells recognize viral antigens, such as pp65 and IE1, presented by MHC molecules on the surface of infected cells [3]. This recognition, mediated by specific T-cell receptors (TCRs), triggers the release of cytotoxic granules containing perforin and granzymes, as well as the secretion of antiviral cytokines like interferon-gamma (IFN-γ), leading to the targeted destruction of infected cells and suppression of viral replication [1, 14].