A first-in-human clinical trial of an immune rejuvenation therapy designed to restore the function of worn-out T cells is expected to begin later this year, building on research led by UCL scientists into the mechanisms of immune aging.
The Phase 1 trial will focus on exhausted or senescent
T cells, which accumulate with age and in chronic disease and become less effective at coordinating immune protection.
Researchers hope that metabolically resetting these cells may help the immune system regain characteristics associated with younger, healthier immune responses. The work may have clinical utility for diseases such as cancer, HIV and dementia.
Our immune system protects us from infection, cancer and disease. However, as we age, some immune cells become exhausted and lose their ability to function effectively. This process, known as immune aging, can leave people more vulnerable to illness and less able to respond to health challenges.
The new therapy, developed by biotech company SenTcell founded by Dr Alessio Lanna (UCL Medicine), is designed to rejuvenate these worn-out immune cells. Rather than attacking diseased cells directly, it works by restoring the immune system's natural ability to recognize and respond to threats.
The treatment is a liquid formulation administered by intramuscular injection, similar to many commonly used vaccines. Once delivered, it is designed to reprogramme key pathways that drive immune dysfunction, helping immune cells regain characteristics of younger, healthier cells.
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