Ex vivo activation and expansion of human T cells using biocompatible substrates with tunable rigidity
Autologous T cells are currently being investigated for use in adoptive immunotherapy to treat cancer and infectious diseases. Existing methods to culture, expand, and activate T cells utilize ligands immobilized on stiff surfaces. However, the mechanical properties of culture surfaces influence cell adhesion, proliferation, and differentiation, and may have eventual downstream effects on T cell activity. This technology describes a culture system for the ex vivo expansion of human T cells that utilizes a biocompatible substrate with tunable rigidity. With further development, this system may mimic the cells' native microenvironment, leading to robust T cell activation ex vivo.
Biocompatible substrate mimics in vivo microenvironmentEnhances T cell proliferation compared to conventional stiff substratesProduces more cells with a central memory-like phenotypeCan be used for both research and clinical applicationsPatent Information:Patent Pending (WO/2013/036585)Tech Ventures Reference: IR 2941
T cell activation for research applicationsT cell activation ex vivo for autologous implantationCancer immunotherapyAutoimmune disease therapy Treatment of chronic infections
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USA

