Adoptive Chemoimmunotherapy Using Activated αβ T Cells for Stage IV Colorectal Cancer.

BACKGROUND/AIM: Adoptive immunotherapy of cancer is evolving with the development of novel technologies that generate proliferation of large numbers of αβ and γδ T cells. We evaluated the safety and efficacy of the combination of adoptive immunotherapy using αβ T cells with chemotherapy for stage IV colorectal cancer (CRC).

PATIENTS AND METHODS: Fifteen patients with advanced or recurrent CRC received XELOX + bevacizumab + ex vivo expanded αβ T lymphocytes as a first-line chemoimmunotherapy.

RESULTS: Median age of the 15 patients (4 men, 11 women) was 65 years (range=49-80). Median progression-free survival was 21.3 months. Response rate was 80% (complete response (CR)=26.7%, partial response (PR)=53.3%, stable disease (SD)=20% and progressive disease (PD)=0%). Most adverse events were mild to moderate regarding their intensity and immunotherapy-associated toxicity was minimal.

CONCLUSION: Combination of adoptive αβ T cell immunotherapy with chemotherapy for stage IV CRC is feasible and safe.