Immunotherapy and allogeneic stem cells transplantation

Allogeneic stem cell transplantations represent perfect example of immunotherapy. Its positive aspects are due to the graft versus tumor effect. Unfortunately, this therapeutic advantage is usually associated with graft versus host effects. While the mechanism of these two graft reactions remain unclear, this is possible to modulate these immunologic effects. The type of conditioning regimen, the source of donor and the use of donor cells after the transplantation may influence the toxicity and the tumor response, leading to a better optimization of the procedure. This paper is presenting all the parameters which may contribute to improve allogeneic stem cell transplantations.