allogeneic natural killer cells

Allogeneic natural killer (NK) cells are innate lymphocytes derived from donors that are used in adoptive cell therapy for cancer treatment. These cells have an inherent ability to recognize and eliminate malignant cells without causing graft-versus-host disease (GVHD). NK cells can be obtained from various sources including blood, cord blood, hematopoietic stem and progenitor cells, or induced pluripotent stem cells. They can be expanded and cryopreserved for off-the-shelf availability, providing immediate treatment options without the delays associated with autologous therapies. Compared to CAR T-cell therapies, allogeneic NK cells demonstrate reduced toxicities such as cytokine release syndrome and immune effector cell-associated neurotoxicity syndrome. Clinical trials have shown promising results in treating various cancers, particularly hematological malignancies like acute myeloid leukemia (AML).

Other names

donor-derived natural killer cellsallogeneic NK cellsdonor NK cells