Memory T cell adoptive transfer

Memory T cell adoptive transfer is a therapeutic technique in which antigen-experienced T cell subsets, primarily central memory (T_CM) and effector memory (T_EM) T cells, are isolated, sometimes genetically engineered or expanded ex vivo, and then infused into patients to reconstitute or enhance immune responses against infections and malignancies. These memory T cells are distinguished by their long-term persistence, self-renewal, rapid recall upon antigen re-exposure, and specialized trafficking properties, contributing to effective immune surveillance and lasting protection. Clinical efficacy depends heavily on the subset composition, with central memory T cells showing superior persistence and expansion capacity compared to effector memory T cells, making them preferred candidates for adoptive immunotherapy[1][2][3][4][5][7].

Other names

Memory T cellscentral memory T cells (T_CM)effector memory T cells (T_EM)memory stem T cellstissue-resident memory T cellsmemory T lymphocytes

Adoptive transfer provides long-lived immunity via engraftment and persistence of transferred memory T cells. Expansion, trafficking, and immune protection against target antigens (infectious or malignant). Some protocols genetically engineer T cells to direct antigen targeting (CAR-T, modified TCR).