Graft-versus-tumor

Graft-versus-tumor (GVT) is a medical phenomenon that occurs after an allogeneic stem cell transplant, where the donor's immune cells attack the recipient's cancer cells. This effect is beneficial in treating certain types of cancer, such as leukemia and lymphoma. However, it can also lead to a potentially harmful condition known as graft-versus-host disease (GVHD).

Overview

Graft-versus-tumor effect is a crucial aspect of the therapeutic benefit of allogeneic stem cell transplantation. The donor's immune cells, particularly the T cells, recognize the cancer cells in the recipient's body as foreign and attack them. This immune response can lead to the elimination of residual cancer cells and prevent relapse.

Mechanism

The GVT effect is primarily mediated by the donor's T cells. These cells recognize antigens presented on the surface of the recipient's cancer cells and mount an immune response. The antigens can be minor histocompatibility antigens, tumor-specific antigens, or tumor-associated antigens.

Clinical Significance

The GVT effect has significant clinical implications in the treatment of hematological malignancies. It can lead to the eradication of residual cancer cells and prevent disease relapse. However, the same immune response can also cause GVHD, a condition where the donor's immune cells attack the recipient's healthy tissues.

Research and Future Directions

Research is ongoing to enhance the GVT effect while minimizing the risk of GVHD. Strategies include the selective depletion of T cell subsets, the use of immunosuppressive drugs, and the development of novel therapies that target specific immune checkpoints.

See Also

• Allogeneic stem cell transplantation
• Graft-versus-host disease
• Hematological malignancies
• Immunotherapy

References

Graft-versus-tumor Resources
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