α-GalCer-pulsed dendritic cells

α-GalCer-pulsed dendritic cells are a form of cell-based immunotherapy in which autologous or allogeneic dendritic cells are ex vivo loaded (pulsed) with the glycolipid antigen α-galactosylceramide (α-GalCer). When administered to patients, these pulsed DCs present α-GalCer via CD1d molecules to invariant natural killer T (iNKT) cells. This interaction robustly activates iNKT cells, leading to rapid production of cytokines such as IFN-γ and subsequent activation of other immune effectors including NK and conventional T cells. The therapy is designed primarily for cancer immunotherapy—especially for solid tumors such as non-small cell lung cancer—by harnessing both innate and adaptive immune responses against tumor antigens. Clinical studies have shown that this approach can induce strong anti-tumor immunity without severe adverse events. The method is considered more effective than free α-GalCer administration because it avoids iNKT cell anergy and enhances the magnitude and duration of immune activation.