GIFT · Graft engineering to improve allogeneic stem cell transplantation

Allogeneic stem cell transplantation (ASCT) is a curative therapy for various haematological malignancies. Obtaining suitably matched donors, problems with graft versus host disease (GVHD) and infection, however, limit the wider application of this therapy. Knowledge from previous studies has highlighted the need for a more effective and integrated approach to address these issues. This project examines how our knowledge of immune cell trafficking can be exploited in conjunction with haploidentical stem cell transplantation to minimise GVHD, promote immunity and antileukemic responses in ASCT. The knowledge derived from this study will contribute to a greater understanding of how immune cell trafficking can be utilised to improve ASCT and immunotherapies. Its success will lead to new and more effective protocols for the design and development of stem cell grafts for the treatment of cancer.