Protocols for Studying Graft-Versus-Leukemia Immunity in Mice.

Abstract

For patients with leukemia and other hematological malignancies, allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (allo-SCT) represents a primary treatment option. This therapy involves the transplantation of healthy stem cells from a compatible donor into a preconditioned recipient. These transplanted cells then recognize and attack the remaining leukemia cells or other malignant cells in the recipient, a process named graft-versus-leukemia (GVL) immunity. This immunological response contributes to the therapeutic effect of the transplant, reducing the risk of disease relapse or progression. However, it can also lead to graft-versus-host disease (GVHD), the main complication related to allo-SCT. Therefore, effective treatment requires a balance between GVL immunity and GVHD. This chapter describes protocols for studying GVL immunity in allogeneic and humanized (xenogeneic) mouse models, including the challenges and strategies encountered in the induction of GVL immunity in such models.