Pathogen-Specific T Cells Beyond CMV, EBV and Adenovirus.

Area of Science:

• Immunology
• Transplantation Medicine
• Infectious Diseases

Background:

• Infectious diseases pose a significant risk to allogeneic haematopoietic stem cell transplantation (aHSCT) recipients, exacerbated by potent immunosuppression and delayed immune reconstitution.
• Adoptive cell therapy using ex vivo manipulated pathogen-specific T cells (PSTs) is emerging as a key strategy to combat these infections.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the expanding scope of pathogens targeted by PSTs beyond common viruses like CMV, EBV, and AdV.
• To highlight advancements in PST manufacturing and early clinical results for a broader spectrum of viral and fungal infections.

Main Methods:

• Review of existing clinical trial data, focusing on early-phase studies.
• Analysis of advancements in selection and enrichment methods for PSTs.
• Examination of the burden of disease for a wider range of pathogens.

Main Results:

• Early studies show promise for PSTs targeting polyomaviruses, HHV6, VZV, and Aspergillus spp.
• PSTs are being explored for other pathogens including HSV, respiratory viruses, and invasive fungi.
• Manufacturing capabilities for PSTs are advancing.

Conclusions:

• PSTs represent a versatile therapeutic strategy for managing diverse infections post-aHSCT.
• Further clinical development and implementation are needed to address challenges and expand the use of PSTs.