Dynal, now part of Invitrogen Corporation, has announced the release of a key research tool in its immunotherapy range: Dynabeads (ClinExVivo CD3/CD28).
The superparamagnetic beads are designed with an optimised surface covered with primary CD3 and co-stimulatory CD28 antibodies. Following a short ex vivo incubation with the patient’s sample, the beads bind with the T cells. The beads and bound T cells are separated from the rest of the sample using the special Dynal ClinExVivo MPC magnet. Researchers then stimulate and expand the T cells ex vivo with Dynabeads in a sterile environment prior to reintroduction to the patient. Boosted T cells, if reinfused, have the potential to strengthen the individual’s immune system to fight diseases, for example cancer and HIV.
According to international product manager, Erik Ruud, the Dynabeads open a wide range of exciting possibilities: “Already this innovative technology has been used for several phase I/II trials in cancer patients. Data from studies using ex vivo manipulated T cells in cancer and vaccine therapy were recently presented at the International Society for Cell Therapy (ISCT) conference during a special symposium on “T Cell-based Immunotherapeutic Strategies.” The technology has further potential in auto-immune diseases as well as gene and stem cell applications.
