More Than a BTK Inhibitor; Ibrutinib Profoundly Impacts the Function of Cell Mediated Immunity

Abstract

Abstract Background: Chronic lymphocytic leukaemia (CLL) is associated with profound immune dysfunction, which is often exacerbated by CLL therapies. This study aimed to understand the impact of multiple BTK inhibitors on the function of cytotoxic T cells. BTK, along with ITK, TXK, BMX and TEC is a member of the Tec family of nonreceptor tyrosine kinases which are integral to the downstream signalling of many immune receptors. Critically, BTK and ITK are downstream of the B cell and T cell receptors. Whilst identified as a selective BTK inhibitor, ibrutinib inhibits all five members of the Tec family at clinically meaningful doses (Long et al, JCI, 2017). More selective BTK in..