T cells dressed up with a dual HLA-restricted TCR targeting cathepsin G drive effective AML eradication

ABSTRACT: Despite immunosensitivity, genetic heterogeneity, low mutational burden, and lack of tumor-specific antigens hinder immunotherapy success for acute myeloid leukemia (AML). T-cell receptors (TCRs) offer a promising route by targeting tumor-relevant extracellular and intracellular antigens shared across AML subtypes; however, HLA restriction limits their potential. We identified a potent TCR capable of recognizing peptides of cathepsin G (CTSG), a serine protease confined to neutrophil granules but aberrantly localized in the cytoplasm of blasts, when presented by HLA-A∗24:02 and HLA-C∗07:02, highly frequent alleles. Leveraging TCR gene-editing and CD8 coreceptor transduction, we engineered a robust T-cell population, comprising CD4+CD8+ T lymphocytes with enhanced functionality, without altering subset identity. T cells expressing the CTSG-TCR exhibited strong and specific cytotoxicity against primary blasts, in vitro and in vivo. Noticeably, no alterations in peripheral blood cell populations, bone marrow hematopoiesis, or extramedullary hematopoietic organs (the spleen and liver) were observed, demonstrating optimal on-target, off-tumor safety profile. Moreover, the absence of off-target cross-reactivity was proved by peptide mutagenesis, highlighting the specificity of the TCR for CTSG. These results reveal the potential of dual restricted TCRs, and of CTSG-TCR T cells as powerful therapeutics for a broad population of patients with AML.