Investigating T Cell Responses in Progressive Multifocal Leukoencephalopathy

Dynamics of T Cell Expression of Immune Checkpoint Molecules in Progressive Multifocal Leukoencephalopathy

Not applicable Interventional University Hospital, Toulouse · NCT04453917

This study is trying to see how certain immune cells in people with Progressive Multifocal Leukoencephalopathy (PML) respond to a virus and if this can help us find better treatments.

Quick facts

PhaseNot applicable
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment15 (estimated)
Ages18 Years and up
SexAll
SponsorUniversity Hospital, Toulouse Academic / other
Locations4 sites (Bordeaux and 3 other locations)
Trial IDNCT04453917 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This study aims to explore the relationship between T cell expression of immune checkpoint molecules and antiviral immune responses in patients with Progressive Multifocal Leukoencephalopathy (PML). It focuses on understanding how these immune checkpoint molecules may influence the control of JC virus replication and the overall outcome of PML. The study will involve collecting blood and urine samples, conducting spinal taps, brain MRIs, and neurological evaluations from 15 patients diagnosed with active PML across four teaching hospitals in the South West of France. The findings could provide insights into potential therapeutic strategies involving immune checkpoint blockade.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this study are adults aged 18 and older with active PML and positive PCR for JC virus in cerebrospinal fluid.

Not a fit: Patients with non-active PML or those who are pregnant or breastfeeding may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to new therapeutic approaches for managing PML by enhancing antiviral immune responses.

How similar studies have performed: While the approach of using immune checkpoint blockade is being explored in other conditions, this specific application in PML is novel and has not been extensively tested.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Adults ≥18 years old
* Informed consent
* Active virological PML : Recent neurological symptoms (\< 3 months) with brain MRI lesions suggestive of PML and positive PCR in cerebrospinal fluid for JCV
* Affiliated or benefiting from public health insurance.

Exclusion Criteria:

* Non active PML
* Possible PML with negative JCV PCR
* Adults under guardianship or other legal protection, deprived of their liberty by judicial or administrative decision
* Pregnant and/or breastfeeding women

Where this trial is running

Bordeaux and 3 other locations

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Conditions Progressive Multifocal LeukoencephalopathyProgressive multifocal leukoencephalopathyPathophysiologyImmune checkpoint moleculesImmune Checkpoint Inhibitors
Last reviewed 2026-06-15 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.