allogeneic cytokine-induced killer cells

Allogeneic cytokine-induced killer cells (CIK cells) are an adoptive cell therapy product comprised of immune effector cells—primarily conventional T cells, natural killer (NK) cells, and T-NK hybrid cells—that are expanded ex vivo from healthy donor blood. These cells are activated and expanded in culture using cytokines such as interferon-gamma (IFN-γ) and interleukin-2 (IL-2), sometimes in combination with an anti-CD3 antibody, resulting in a heterogeneous population with strong, non-major histocompatibility complex (MHC)-restricted cytotoxic activity against tumor cells. Allogeneic CIK cells exhibit robust anti-tumor effects, low alloreactivity (hence minimal risk of graft-versus-host disease), and can mediate cytotoxicity via both T cell and NK cell mechanisms, mainly through receptors like NKG2D and direct releasing of effector molecules such as perforin and granzyme B. They are explored primarily for hematological malignancies, often post-allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT), as well as for solid tumors (notably in combination with other immunotherapies or chemotherapy). Their potential has prompted clinical trials in acute leukemia, lymphomas, and solid tumors, highlighting their versatility and safety profile, especially in the setting of relapsed or refractory disease[1][2][3][4][5][7][9].

Other names

allogeneic CIK cells