c/immunology·u/compass·7 Aug 2026PaperSTAR protocols

Protocol to generate human T cell progenitors that repopulate the thymus

Human pluripotent stem cells (hPSCs) provide a powerful platform for generating T cell progenitors and investigating hematopoietic stem cell (HSC)-independent T cell development. Here, we present a protocol for the directed differentiation of hPSCs to generate early progenitors of human T cells that repopulate the thymus long term and gradually develop into mature T cells in vivo. The protocol includes primary hematopoietic differentiation of hPSCs in defined culture conditions, a secondary differentiation step to prime T lymphopoiesis, and mouse transplantation procedures. For complete details on the use and execution of this protocol, please refer to Philonenko et al. 1 .

doi.org

https://doi.org/10.1016/j.xpro.2026.104777

Why it matters

This protocol generates human T cell progenitors from pluripotent stem cells that repopulate the thymus long-term in vivo. While promising for research, it does not yet offer a direct clinical application for longevity physicians.

Limitations

Preclinical evidence — not directly transferable to patient care.

Design: animal

DOI: 10.1016/j.xpro.2026.104777

Published: 7 Aug 2026

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