T lymphocytes, reactive against tumor antigens, mediate the regression of established tumors upon adoptive transfer. We have developed an effective therapy for experimental brain tumors by systemic intravenous transfer of ex vivo activated T cells derived from tumor-draining lymph nodes. Both CD4 and CD8 T cells are required to mediate tumor regression which is exquisitely specific and confers immunologic memory. Several factors influencing the efficacy of adoptive immunotherapy for brain tumors are markedly different than for optimal treatment of tumors at other visceral sites. A similarly designed phase I clinical trial has been initiated for the treatment of malignant astrocytomas.

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