T cell-mediated immune responses in xenotransplantation: mechanisms and therapeutic strategies

Xenotransplantation has emerged as a promising approach to alleviate the shortage of donor organs. While advances in porcine gene-editing technologies have largely overcome hyperacute rejection, the persistent challenge of T cell- and antibody-mediated rejection reactions continues to impede the long-term survival and clinical translation of xenografts. T cells connect innate and adaptive immunity and are the main effector cells in cell-mediated rejection reactions. The antigen recognition, activation, and effector differentiation of T cells have a crucial impact on the clinical outcomes of xenotransplantation. This review focuses on the immune response process of T cells in xenotransplantation and discusses potential strategies for T cell-mediated rejection reactions. Future exploration of efficient and safe approaches for inducing immune tolerance will be a key direction for prolonging the survival of xenografts.