Immunology has significantly influenced the development of treatments for hematological diseases, notably through the advancements in hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) and CAR-T cell therapy. HSCT works by transplanting healthy stem cells to rejuvenate hematopoiesis and repair defective immune systems, with its success critically dependent on managing immune compatibility and graft-versus-host disease. Simultaneously, CAR-T therapy utilizes genetically engineered T cells with chimeric antigen receptors to specifically target and destroy target cells, focusing research efforts on enhancing receptor design and ensuring T-cell persistence. There is still a lot of works to be done in these two interventions, based on better understanding of immunology.

The integration of HSCT and CAR-T therapy represents a pioneering approach that could dramatically improve treatment outcomes by combining their complementary mechanisms to address challenges such as the treatment of refractory/relapsed malignancies, novel prophylaxis of GVHD, new myeloablative conditioning, and new therapeutic targets. This Research Topic aims to deepen the understanding of immunological advancements in these therapies, exploring innovative strategies to enhance and integrate them to improve patient outcomes. By bringing together cutting-edge research and clinical insights, this forum seeks to foster innovative approaches that could lead to significant breakthroughs in therapy efficacy and accessibility, spotlighting recent immunological breakthroughs that refine these vital therapies.

In this Research Topic, we welcome submissions of Original Research, Methods, Materials, Protocols, Classifications, Reviews, Mini-reviews, Perspective, and Clinical Trial articles covering recent advances in the following areas:

1) Mechanisms of CAR-T activation, expansion, cytotoxicity, and in vivo persistence.
2) Methods for enhancing the function, accessibility, and druggability of CAR-T cells (e.g., CAR design, T cell function, and crafting manufacturing techniques).
3) Clinical trials of CAR-T cells against diseases, particularly novel indications such as autoimmune diseases and solid tumors.
4) Mechanisms of immune tolerance and alloimmunity.
5) Pathophysiology of acute and chronic graft-versus-host disease (GvHD) after allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (Allo-HSCT).
6) Clinical trials focused on prevention and treatment of acute and chronic GvHD.

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Frontiers in Immunology

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