Using virus-specific T-cells to treat infections after stem cell transplants

Allogeneic virus-specific T-cell therapy after hematopoietic stem cell transplant: determinants of treatment success and failure

NIH-funded research Cincinnati Childrens Hosp Med Ctr · NIH-11174371

This study is looking at how special immune cells from healthy donors can help children who have had a stem cell transplant fight off certain viral infections, making it easier for their bodies to recover than with regular medicine.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionCincinnati Childrens Hosp Med Ctr NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Cincinnati, United States)
Project IDNIH-11174371 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the use of virus-specific T-cells (VST) to treat infections caused by double-stranded DNA viruses in children who have undergone hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT). The approach involves generating T-cells from healthy donors that are specifically targeted against viruses like adenovirus and BK polyomavirus, which are common complications after transplant. These T-cells are then infused into patients to help their immune system fight off these viral infections more effectively than traditional antiviral medications. The study aims to identify factors that influence the success or failure of this treatment, providing insights into optimizing patient outcomes.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are children aged 0-11 years who have undergone hematopoietic stem cell transplantation and are experiencing viral infections.

Not a fit: Patients who are not undergoing HSCT or who do not have viral infections may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could significantly reduce the morbidity and mortality associated with viral infections in pediatric patients after stem cell transplants.

How similar studies have performed: Previous clinical trials have shown that virus-specific T-cell therapy is safe and effective for treating viral infections in transplant patients, indicating a promising approach.

Where this research is happening

Cincinnati, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.