autologous NK cell therapy (Shenzhen People's Hospital)

This autologous natural killer (NK) cell therapy is an adoptive cell-based biologic being investigated by Shenzhen People's Hospital for the treatment of stage III-IV (severe) endometriosis. The therapy involves isolating NK cells from the patient's own peripheral blood, followed by ex vivo stimulation and expansion using a cocktail of cytokines (such as IL-2, IL-15, IL-12, and IL-18) or feeder cells to enhance their cytotoxic potential. The activated NK cells are then re-infused intravenously into the patient. The treatment rationale is based on the observation that patients with endometriosis often exhibit impaired NK cell activity, which facilitates the survival and implantation of ectopic endometrial tissue in the peritoneal cavity. In clinical settings, this therapy is typically evaluated as an adjunct to standard hormonal treatments, such as gonadotrophin-releasing hormone (GnRH) agonists.

Other names

Autologous NK cell therapyAutologous natural killer cell therapyNK cell therapy for severe endometriosis