CAR-iNKT cells

CAR-iNKT cells are a form of cell therapy in which invariant natural killer T (iNKT) cells are genetically engineered to express a chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) targeting tumor-associated antigens. iNKT cells naturally possess a semi-invariant T cell receptor (TCR) that recognizes glycolipid antigens presented by the non-polymorphic molecule CD1d, enabling them to bridge innate and adaptive immunity and bypass human leukocyte antigen (HLA) restrictions. Engineered CAR-iNKT cells combine tumor antigen-specific killing (through the CAR) with endogenous anti-tumor and immunoregulatory capacities (through their native TCR and cytokine secretion). They demonstrate superior tumor infiltration, rapid activation, potent cytotoxicity (via perforin, granzyme B, and FasL/CD95), and the ability to remodel the tumor microenvironment by depleting tumor-associated macrophages and myeloid-derived suppressor cells. Unlike conventional CAR-T therapies, CAR-iNKT cells minimize risks of graft-versus-host disease (GvHD) and are being developed as “off-the-shelf” allogeneic therapies with broad applicability across hematologic malignancies and solid tumors. Preclinical and early clinical trials show robust anti-tumor activity and favorable safety profiles with reduced incidence of cytokine release syndrome and neurotoxicity compared to CAR-T cells[1][2][3][4][6][7][8].

Other names

chimeric antigen receptor invariant natural killer T cellsCAR-invariant natural killer T cellsCAR iNKT