Methods of using flt3-ligand in hematopoietic cell transplantation

Patent Number: 7,294,331

Flt3 ligand is a potent stimulator of hematopoietic stem cell proliferation. This cytokine has other effects as well, such as increasing the number of dendritic cells, particularly of the lyphoid phenotype.

The current patent covers the use of Flt3 ligand in transplantation of hematopoietic stem cells. Particularly the administration of Flt3 ligand before introduction of hematopoietic stem cells, concurrently with, and subsequent to.

Covered are also uses of Flt3 ligand to expand stem cells post-transplant as well as combination of Flt3 ligand with other hematopoietic growth factors.

Given that flt3 ligand does stimulate DC formation in vivo, it may be interesting to postulate that use of Flt3 ligand in the context of transplantation may also cause an enhanced graft versus leukemia effect.

View this patent on the USPTO website.