Review calls for multidimensional assessment of T-cell function in AML

T-cell exhaustion or dysfunction has been linked to AML relapse, particularly after allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation. In this review, researchers examine how the AML tumor microenvironment may affect T cells and argue that assessments based only on inhibitory receptors such as PD-1, TIM-3, LAG-3 and CTLA-4 provide an incomplete account of their function. The article is a review and reports no new patient data.

The authors propose a broader characterization that includes cytokine secretion, cytotoxic capacity, activation and proliferation, metabolic profile, T-cell subsets, telomere length and epigenetic state. They also highlight evidence that T cells in AML are not uniformly impaired: some may retain cytotoxic potential, while dysfunction varies with cellular context and the tumor microenvironment.

The authors argue that standardized, multidimensional profiling could inform research into the design and timing of T-cell-based therapies. The review does not establish a validated assessment standard or demonstrate that adopting this approach improves patient outcomes; its proposals require further evaluation.