Allogeneic NK cell therapy (Marzieh Ebrahimi)

This investigational NK (Natural Killer) cell therapy is being developed by Marzieh Ebrahimi and colleagues at the Royan Institute for Stem Cell Biology and Technology. The therapy utilizes allogeneic CD56+ NK cells isolated from healthy unrelated donors through positive selection. These cells are administered intrathecally (via lumbar puncture) to bypass the blood-brain barrier and directly target high-grade gliomas, including glioblastoma and diffuse midline gliomas, in both adult and pediatric populations. The mechanism of action involves direct NK cell-mediated cytotoxicity against tumor cells and the secretion of interferon gamma (IFN-γ) to enhance the broader anti-tumor immune response. Clinical evaluation has progressed to Phase II trials focusing on safety, feasibility, and efficacy in refractory or recurrent brain tumors, with patients receiving multiple weekly doses of up to 5×10^7 NK cells per injection.

Other names

Intrathecal NK cell therapyActive allogeneic natural killer cellsNK cell therapy-Marzieh Ebrahimi-high-grade glioma