A novel Epstein-Barr virus-latent membrane protein-1-specific T-cell receptor for TCR gene therapy.

Background: Adoptive transfer of genetically engineered T-cells to express antigen-specific T-cell receptor (TCR) is a feasible and effective therapeutic approach for numerous types of cancers, including Epstein-Barr virus (EBV)-associated malignancies. Here, we describe a TCR gene transfer regimen to rapidly and reliably generate T-cells specific to EBV-encoded latent membrane protein-1 (LMP1), which is a potential target for T-cell-based immunotherapy.

Methods: A novel TCR specific to LMP1 (LMP1-TCR) was isolated from HLA-A*0201 transgenic mice that were immunised with the minimal epitope LMP1 (TLLVDLLWL), and LMP1-TCR-transduced peripheral blood lymphocytes were evaluated for functional specificities.

Oral administration of poly-γ-glutamate ameliorates atopic dermatitis in Nc/Nga mice by suppressing Th2-biased immune response and production of IL-17A.

Atopic dermatitis (AD) is a chronic inflammatory skin disease that is closely related to dysregulation of the T helper type 1 and 2 (Th1)/Th2 balance. A previous study showed that high molecular mass poly-γ-glutamate (γ-PGA) isolated from Bacillus subtilis sp. Chungkookjang induces the production of IL-12 from dendritic cells (DCs).

Combination of poly-gamma-glutamate and cyclophosphamide enhanced antitumor efficacy against tumor growth and metastasis in a murine melanoma model.

Conventional chemotherapeutic regimens often accompany severe side effects and fail to induce complete regression of chemoresistant or relapsing metastatic cancers. The need for establishing more efficacious anticancer strategies led to the development of a combined modality treatment of chemotherapy in conjunction with immunotherapy or radiotherapy. It has been reported that poly-gamma-glutamate (γ-PGA), a natural polymer composed of glutamic acids, increases antitumor activity by activating antigen-presenting cells and natural killer (NK) cells.

Antiviral activity of the plant extracts from Thuja orientalis, Aster spathulifolius, and Pinus thunbergii against influenza virus A/PR/8/34.

Influenza viruses cause significant morbidity and mortality in humans through epidemics or pandemics. Currently, two classes of anti-influenza virus drugs, M2 ion-channel inhibitors (amantadin and rimantadine) and neuraminidase inhibitors (oseltamivir and zanamivir), have been used for the treatment of the influenza virus infection. Since the resistance to these drugs has been reported, the development of a new antiviral agent is necessary.