Leveraging CAR T cells to Achieve Desensitization and Enable Transplantation

Abstract

Abstract Pre-existing allo-antibodies (allo-Abs), that preclude transplant due to the risk of hyperacute rejection, lead to prolonged wait times and high mortality rates. Current desensitization approaches are ineffective as they do not adequately deplete allo-specific B cells and plasma cells (PCs). We hypothesize that stringent depletion of these cells is required to eliminate pre-existing allo-Abs. We leverage the exquisite ability of CAR T cells to eliminate target cells to desensitize transplant candidates. We constructed CARs targeting murine CD19 or BCMA, which cover the entire B cell-PC continuum. We first evaluated the function of CAR T cells against B cells and PCs in vitro. C57BL/6 mice were sensitized with BALB/c skin grafts. After skin rejection, sensitized mice received total body irradiation followed by treatment with either control T cells, CART-19 T cells, or a combination of CART-19 and CART-BCMA T cells (combo-CART). Allo-Abs, total Ig, and B cells were measured over 13 weeks. Functional desensitization was then assessed by induction of diabetes followed by BALB/c-derived islet cell transplant and glucose were measured to assess graft survival. CD19- and BCMA-targeted CARs effectively depleted primary B cells and PCs in vitro and in vivo. Control and CART-19 T cells were ineffective at desensitizing mice, but combo-CART treatment resulted in significant decrease of allo-Abs. Islet cell grafts succumbed to hyperacute rejection in 80% of control and CART-19 treated mice. However, combo-CART treatment resulted in prolonged graft survival in all mice (mean 35 days, range 16–60). Thus, CAR T cells targeting B cell and PC antigens represent a promising approach to desensitization and could enable lifesaving transplantation.