Methods for enhancing engraftment of purified hematopoietic stem cells in allogeneic recipients

Abstract

This invention provides a method of achieving a higher rate of allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell engraftment by either (i) matching the major histocompatibility complex class I K locus between donors and recipients or (ii) identifying how class I K on HSC interact with FC (CD8/33Kd receptor complex) works thus allowing one to bypass the need for FC. The MHC loci which are essential for curable engraftment of purified allogeneic HSC are identified by the methods of this invention. This invention further demonstrates that the MHC class I K molecule is essential for maintaining the self-renewal capability of purified HSC. Moreover, interaction between the HSC and FC via the MHC class I K molecule provides a regulatory function to promote engraftment and survival of allogeneic HSC.

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.