Immunotherapy to reconstitute immunity to DNA viruses.
Defects in cytotoxic T-lymphocyte (CTL) function after hemopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) are associated with an increased frequency and severity of viral diseases. Initial investigations of viral infections in immunosuppressed mice and subsequent clinical studies of cytomegalovirus (CMV) and Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) in human stem cell transplant patients have suggested that adoptive transfer of virus-specific T cells may restore protective immunity and control established infections. Current efforts focus on optimizing adoptive immunotherapy approaches and developing strategies for generating T cells specific for multiple viruses to provide broader protection.
Gahn
Benedikt
B
Center for Cell and Gene Therapy, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA.
Hunt
Garrett
G
Rooney
Cliona M
CM
Heslop
Helen E
HE
D000818:Animals; D004266:DNA Virus Infections / Q000517:prevention & control / Q000628:therapy*; D004267:DNA Viruses / Q000254:growth & development / Q000276:immunology; D018380:Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation / Q000009:adverse effects; D006801:Humans; D007109:Immunity; D016219:Immunotherapy, Adoptive / Q000379:methods*