Innovations in treating acute graft-versus-host disease: a review of preclinical targets and strategies

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ABSTRACT Introduction Acute graft-versus-host disease (aGVHD) is a major complication of post-allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (allo-HSCT) that severely impacts patient survival and quality of life. Despite advancements in standard care, therapeutic outcomes remain suboptimal, necessitating the exploration of innovative strategies. Areas covered This review synthesizes preclinical research focusing on novel therapeutic targets and strategies that may enhance treatment efficacy. We critically analyzed the role of specific T-cell subsets, cytokine modulators, and intracellular signaling pathways in reducing aGVHD severity. Emphasis is placed on experimental findings that illuminate the mechanisms of immune tolerance and survival improvement. We discuss the translation of these findings into potential clinical trials and evaluate the challenges and progress in implementing these strategies, including scalability and impact on the graft-versus-leukemia (GVL) effect. Expert opinion Our review summarizes the latest therapeutic targets and strategies in preclinical research for aGVHD, aiming to bridge the gap between clinical and experimental medicine. By integrating immunology, genetics, and cytology, we seek to enhance the translation of preclinical findings into clinical strategies. This multidisciplinary approach is expected to improve patient outcomes in aGVHD treatment, ultimately leading to more effective and safer therapies.