Mimetic scaffolds of antigen-presenting cells and methods for preparing and using them

Abstract

The embodiments described here relate to antigen-presenting cell-mimicking scaffolds (apc-ms) and the use of such scaffolds to manipulate T lymphocytes. More specifically, the scaffolds are useful for promoting the growth, division, differentiation, expansion, proliferation, activity, viability, exhaustion, anergy, rest, apoptosis, or death of T cells in various settings, for example, in vitro, ex vivo, or in vivo. The embodiments described here further relate to pharmaceutical compositions, kits, and packaging containing such scaffolds. Additional embodiments relate to methods for manufacturing the scaffolds, compositions, and kits / packaging.Also described here are methods of using scaffolds, compositions and / or kits in the diagnosis or treatment of diseases such as cancers, immunodeficiency disorders and / or autoimmune disorders.