ASH 2015 – stem cell transplantation

Hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) remains one of the most dynamic fields in hematology, as reflected by the large number of abstracts on new developments and establishing concepts in this scientific and clinical area, presented at the ASH meeting in December 2015. The role of haploidentical transplantation for recipients lacking an HLA-matched donor was further strengthened, and the use of an intelligently designed and carefully developed concept of immunomodulation, namely posttransplant cyclophosphamide, enabling successful transplantation across the multi-antigeneic HLA-barrier. Furthermore, with the development of novel antineoplastic therapies, both effective bridging to transplant, as well as prophylactic and preemptive interventions post HSCT will help increase the overall success of increasingly complex and individualized treatment concepts. Finally, novel cellular immunotherapies, most notably the genetically engineered chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T cell concepts, will extend the therapeutic options for patients with hematological malignancies.