autologous cytomegalovirus-specific cytotoxic T lymphocytes

A population of autologous cytotoxic lymphocytes (CTLs) specifically reactive to the herpes virus cytomegalovirus (CMV) with potential immunomodulating and antiviral activities. Upon administration with the autologous CMV-specific CTLs, these CTLs lyse CMV-infected cells, thereby preventing or decreasing the occurrence of CMV viral disease, or reducing the amount of antiviral drug therapy needed to eradicate CMV.