DC-activated cytokine-induced killer cells

DCIK (DC-activated cytokine-induced killer cells) is an autologous cell-based immunotherapy consisting of cytokine-induced killer (CIK) cells that have been co-cultured or stimulated with dendritic cells (DC). CIK cells are a heterogeneous population of effector lymphocytes, primarily CD3+ CD56+ T cells, which possess potent, non-MHC-restricted anti-tumor activity. Dendritic cells, the most potent antigen-presenting cells, are used to enhance the proliferation, cytokine secretion, and cytotoxic activity of the CIK cells against tumor cells. This therapy is typically developed as an adjuvant treatment following surgery or standard chemotherapy to eliminate residual disease and prevent recurrence, particularly in solid tumors like renal cell carcinoma. The interaction between DCs and CIK cells leads to increased production of pro-inflammatory cytokines such as IFN-gamma and IL-12, further boosting the immune response against malignant cells.

Other names

DC-activated CIK cellsDendritic cell-activated cytokine-induced killer cellsDC-stimulated CIK cells