T cells: the most complete “special forces” in the human body

T cells, known as T lymphocytes, are the main force of the human body's adaptive immune system. They are responsible for identifying and removing “dissimilar” molecules, such as virus-infected cells, transplant rejection cells, and of course tumor cells.

Among all T cells, there is a class of “special forces” that are particularly important, and that is tumor antigen-specific T cells (tumor antigen-specific T cells).

They can accurately identify specific antigens expressed by tumors (such as neoantigens and mutated peptides), and then activate the cytotoxic response to accurately “kill” cancer cells by name.

So, if we can know-does a patient have these “special forces” in his body? Are they active? How many are there? This can help us judge the effectiveness of treatment, screen vaccine targets, and monitor immune function.

Why do we need to ”detect" these specific T cells?

1. Evaluate the effect of immunotherapy

CAR-T, PD-1, tumor vaccines...The current hot anti-cancer therapies basically aim at “activating T cells” as the ultimate goal.

But how to judge the efficacy?

It's not about whether the tumor shrinks, but whether the T cells are activated and whether the tumor is really recognized!

2. Guide tumor vaccine design and new drug development

(1) For a tumor vaccine to be effective, it must induce a strong specific T cell response. Through the test, we can：

① Optimize the design of antigen peptide

②Judge the vaccination dose

③Choose the appropriate adjuvant and delivery system

(2) In the process of research and development of new immune drugs, such as small molecule immune agonist, double antibody, and immunomodulatory drugs, it is also necessary to clarify：

① Can it enhance the function of T cells?

② Is it inducing an antigen-specific immune response?

③ Is there a synergistic effect of combined medication?

3. Screening of clinical beneficiary groups

Not every patient has a strong T cell response. Early testing can determine who is suitable for immunotherapy and who may need to “warm up” the immune system (such as combination therapy).

Detecting tumor antigen-specific T cells is not only a “technical point” in scientific research, but also in the era of immunotherapy.：

①The important basis for precise treatment

②The key reference for efficacy evaluation

③The core indicators of vaccine design

It connects three bridges of basic research, translational medicine and clinical application.