Adoptive transfers, spelled /əˈdɒptɪv ˈtrænsfɜrz/ in IPA phonetic transcription, is a term used in immunology to refer to the transplantation of cells or tissues from one individual to another. The word "adoptive" here means "acquired" or "chosen," and "transfers" refer to the movement of cells or tissues from the donor to the recipient. The spelling of the term follows the English pronunciation rules, with the stress on the second syllable of "adoptive" and the first syllable of "transfers."
Adoptive transfers refer to the process of transferring cells or tissues from one individual to another, with the intention of providing therapeutic benefits. It is primarily employed in the field of immunology and medicine, particularly in the treatment of various diseases.
In adoptive transfers, immune cells, such as T cells or natural killer cells, are extracted from a donor and transferred to the recipient. These cells could be derived from the bloodstream, bone marrow, or other sources. The purpose of this transfer is to introduce healthy or modified immune cells into the recipient's system, thereby enhancing their immune response or targeting specific diseases.
Adoptive transfers are often used in cancer treatments, where immune cells are modified or activated to specifically recognize and eradicate cancer cells. This can be done by genetically engineering the donated cells to express specific receptors or antibodies that target cancer cells, or by expanding T cells with strong anti-tumor activity through laboratory techniques. The transferred cells can then mount an attack on cancer cells, potentially leading to tumor regression or elimination.
Apart from cancer, adoptive transfers have shown promise in the treatment of infectious diseases, autoimmune disorders, and graft-versus-host disease (GVHD) after organ transplantation. The procedure can be complex and requires careful matching and compatibility testing between the donor and recipient to minimize complications and maximize therapeutic effectiveness.
In summary, adoptive transfers involve the transfer of immune cells from a donor to a recipient for therapeutic purposes, serving as a powerful strategy to target diseases and enhance immune responses.
The word "adoptive" comes from the Latin word "adoptare", which means "to choose for oneself". In this context, it refers to the act of selecting or choosing something to become part of a family or group.
The word "transfers" is derived from the Latin word "transferre", which means "to carry across". It signifies the movement or transportation of something from one place to another.
So, the term "adoptive transfers" refers to the process of selecting and moving something (usually cells or tissues) from one organism to another. It is commonly used in medical and biological contexts, particularly in reference to the transfer of immune cells or stem cells from a donor to a recipient for therapeutic purposes.