2 research outputs found
Restoring T cell homeostasis after allogeneic stem cell transplantation; principal limitations and future challenges
For several leukemia patients, allogeneic stem cell transplantation (allogeneic-SCT) is
the unique therapeutic modality that could potentially cure their disease. Despite significant progress made in clinical management of allogeneic-SCT, acute graft-versushost disease (aGVHD) and infectious complications remain the second and third cause
of death after disease recurrence. Clinical options to restore immunocompetence after
allogeneic-SCT are very limited as studies have raised awareness about the safety
with regards to graft-versus-host disease (GVHD). Preclinical works are now focusing
on strategies to improve thymic functions and to restore the peripheral niche that
have been damaged by alloreactive T cells. In this mini review, we will provide a brief
overview about the adverse effects of GVHD on the thymus and the peripheral niche
and the resulting negative outcome on peripheral T cell homeostasis. Finally, we will
discuss the potential relevance of coordinating our studies on thymic rejuvenation and
improvement of the peripheral lymphoid niche to achieve optimal T cell regeneration in
GVHD patients