Conquering Organ Rejection with Killer Cells: A New Approach from MHH
Organ transplants are a lifeline for many, yet they carry a significant risk — the immune system, eager to protect the body, frequently attacks the foreign organ. To combat this, the entire immune system is often suppressed indefinitely, leaving the individual susceptible to infections. Therefore, a team of scientists at the Medizinische Hochschule Hannover (MHH) in Hannover, specializing in Transplantation, are developing an innovative solution: cultivating killer cells to safeguard donor organs from rejection.
The Battle Against Organ Rejection
The immune system identifies new organs as foreign, with certain B cells acting as the main instigators of rejection. They recognize the transplant as foreign by examining specific structures on the organ's cell surface. These B cells then create antibodies that target the organ, initiating its destruction.
Killer Cells to the Rescue
To prevent the transplant's destruction, doctors are experimenting with converting the patient's T cells into elite soldiers, or killer cells. Dr. Anna Christina Dragon from the MHH Institute of Transfusion Medicine and Transplant Engineering explains: "A genetic modification turns them into killer cells that precisely eliminate the responsible B cells, which would otherwise form antibodies against the transplant."
This tactic has shown promise in cell cultures, with other doctors expressing delight for its potential to significantly improve organ survival post-transplantation. Immunologist Prof. Dr. Britta Eiz-Vesper adds, "The approach is very innovative and shows promise for effectively improving the long-term success of donated organs following transplantation."
The Future: A Killer Cell Bank
In the long term, the researchers aim to create a real-life "killer cell bank," providing the appropriate variant for patients who require transplants. To achieve this, they will need to focus on characterizing and enhancing the properties of these killer cells, allowing for their efficient storage and application.
Dr. Dragon received the prestigious Leonardo da Vinci Award (worth 10,000 euros) in recognition of her work on this topic.
Additional Insights
Researchers at MHH have identified markers on Natural Killer (NK) cells, offering potential implications for transplantation procedures. Additionally, the University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center has been actively exploring NK cell therapy for cancer treatment, enhancing their persistence and antitumor activity with strategies like CAR NK cells and CD28 costimulation. Conceivably, adaptations of these strategies could support the development of killer cells to prevent organ rejection in transplant procedures.
Ultimately, the MHH researchers' approach represents a revolutionary step in the realm of transplantation. By cultivating killer cells, the team is one step closer to limiting the necessity of immunosuppressants, making transplants safer and more effective.
