autologous iNKT cell therapy

Autologous iNKT cell therapy is an adoptive cell immunotherapy involving the ex vivo expansion and subsequent re-infusion of invariant Natural Killer T (iNKT) cells. These cells are a specialized population of T cells that express a semi-invariant T-cell receptor (TCR) capable of recognizing lipid antigens presented by the CD1d molecule. Developed by Xiaoyan Zhang and colleagues, this therapy is being investigated for its dual potential to combat malignant solid tumors and infectious diseases like tuberculosis. Upon activation, iNKT cells rapidly produce large quantities of cytokines such as interferon-gamma (IFN-γ) and exhibit direct cytotoxic activity against tumor cells and infected macrophages, thereby bridging innate and adaptive immunity.

Other names

iNKT cellsInvariant Natural Killer T cellsInfusion of iNKT cells