Impact of Human Regulatory T cells on the Graft-versus-Myeloma effect
Tuna Mutis
Stem cell transplantation from suitable donors can cure myeloma. The
effectiveness of this therapy is however limited due to the side effect graft-
versus-host disease (GvHD). Studies in mice suggest that administration of a
specific type of donor blood cells, the "regulatory T cells", into recipients can
prevent GvHD without diminishing the curative anti-tumor effect. Towards
clinical trials, we here propose studies to explore whether human regulatory T
cells can also separate the curative anti-myeloma effects of stem cell
transplantation from GvHD. These studies will reveal the clinical feasibility and
more importantly, the safety of this novel approach to prevent GvHD.

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