Identification of T cell receptors and their epitopes mediating GvL responses in acute myeloid leukemia (AML) (A09*)

• Subject Area: Immunology ; Hematology, Oncology ; Clinical Immunology and Allergology
• Term: since 2026
• Project identifier: Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (DFG) - Project number 324392634

This project aims to enhance GvL effects in AML by identifying leukemia-reactive T cell receptors (TCRs) and their target epitopes. Using advanced technologies like single-cell RNA/TCR sequencing and CRISPR-based TCR re-expression, the project screens patient- and donor-derived T cells before and after ASCT. Epitope specificity is mapped using conventional assays and genome-wide peptide-HLA libraries. The goal is to discover over 100 functional TCRs and their epitopes across five common HLA types, paving the way for targeted TCR-based AML immunotherapy after ASCT.

• DFG Programme: CRC/Transregios
• Subproject of: TRR 221: Modulation of graft-versus-host and graft-versus-leukemia immune responses after allogeneic stem cell transplantation
• Applicant Institution: Universität Regensburg
• Project Head: Professor Dr. Kilian Schober