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Updated: Jan 6, 2026

Isolating Human Peripheral Blood Mononuclear Cells and CD4+ T cells from Sézary Syndrome Patients for Transcriptomic Profiling
Published on: October 14, 2021
T-Cell Receptor Clonotypes and Aggressive Subtypes in Cutaneous T-Cell Lymphoma
Liliana L Crisan1, Shanpeng J Li2, Michelle Afkhami3
1Division of Dermatology, City of Hope Comprehensive Cancer Center and Beckman Research Institute, Duarte, California.
T-cell receptor (TCR) sequencing identified specific clonotypes linked to aggressive mycosis fungoides (MF) and Sézary syndrome (SS). These findings can improve risk stratification for earlier, targeted treatment of MF/SS patients.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Dermatology
- Genetics
Background:
- T-cell receptor (TCR) clonotype patterns in mycosis fungoides (MF) and Sézary syndrome (SS) are not well understood.
- This limits their utility in stratifying patient risk.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the association of TCR beta (TCRB) and gamma (TCRG) clonotypes with MF/SS disease stage, specific histologic features, and overall survival.
- To correlate clonal abundance with immune checkpoint expression.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective cohort study of 125 patients with MF/SS (Stage IA-IVB).
- TCR next-generation sequencing performed on lesional skin biopsy specimens.
- Statistical analyses included Fisher exact test, Kaplan-Meier estimates, and multivariable models.
Main Results:
- Clonal TCRB/TCRG segments identified in 78% of patients.
- Specific TCR clonotypes (Vb20, Vg8) associated with folliculotropism, large-cell transformation, advanced stage, and poorer overall survival.
- Higher TCRG clonal abundance correlated with increased PD-1 and ICOS expression.
Conclusions:
- TCR repertoire analysis reveals clonotypes associated with aggressive MF/SS subtypes and reduced survival.
- TCR sequencing holds potential for enhanced clinical risk stratification in MF/SS.
- Early identification of high-risk patients can guide treatment intensity and improve outcomes.
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