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Updated: Jun 24, 2025
Generation of Multivirus-specific T Cells to Prevent/treat Viral Infections after Allogeneic Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplant
Published on: May 27, 2011
Virus-specific T cell therapy to treat refractory viral infections in solid organ transplant recipients
Lorne Schweitzer1, Pawel Muranski2
1Department of Medicine, Division of Infectious Diseases, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, New York, USA; Columbia Center for Translational Immunology, New York, New York, USA.
Abstract:
Solid organ transplant recipients require ongoing immunosuppression to prevent acute rejection, which puts them at risk of opportunistic infections. Viral infections are particularly challenging to prevent and treat as many establish latency and thus cannot be eliminated, whereas targets for small molecule antiviral medications are limited. Resistance to antivirals and unacceptable toxicity also complicate treatment. Virus-specific T cell therapies aim to restore host-specific immunity to opportunistic viruses that is lacking due to ongoing immunosuppressive therapy. This minireview will provide a state-of-the-art update of the current virus-specific T cell pipeline and translational research that is likely to lead to further treatment options for viral infections in solid organ transplant recipients.
Insights
Virus-specific T cell therapies offer a promising approach to combat opportunistic viral infections in solid organ transplant recipients. This review highlights advancements in T cell therapies and translational research for improved patient outcomes.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Virology
- Transplantation
Background:
- Solid organ transplant recipients need immunosuppression, increasing opportunistic infection risk.
- Viral infections are difficult to treat due to latency and limited antiviral targets.
- Antiviral resistance and toxicity complicate treatment options.
Purpose of the Study:
- To provide an update on virus-specific T cell therapies for solid organ transplant recipients.
- To review the current pipeline and translational research in this field.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of current virus-specific T cell therapies.
- Analysis of translational research impacting treatment options.
Main Results:
- Virus-specific T cell therapies aim to restore immunity against latent viruses.
- Advancements are being made in developing new T cell-based treatments.
- Translational research is crucial for clinical application.
Conclusions:
- Virus-specific T cell therapy represents a significant advancement in managing viral infections post-transplant.
- Further research is needed to optimize efficacy and accessibility of these therapies.
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