New immune cell boost may shield kids from Post-Transplant infections

This study tests whether adding memory immune cells (CD45RO) to a stem cell transplant can help children fight off dangerous viral and fungal infections after the procedure. The transplant uses donor stem cells that have been stripped of certain cells to prevent graft-versus-host disease, but this can leave the immune system weak. By adding back memory cells, researchers hope to speed up immune recovery without increasing the risk of graft-versus-host disease. The study involves 100 children and young adults up to age 25 with blood cancers, immune disorders, or bone marrow failure.