DC-CIK + pembrolizumab

This therapeutic approach is an autologous cell-based immunotherapy consisting of dendritic cell-stimulated cytokine-induced killer (DC-CIK) cells combined with the anti-PD-1 monoclonal antibody pembrolizumab. Developed by Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, the treatment involves isolating a patient's own peripheral blood mononuclear cells, which are then differentiated into dendritic cells and cytokine-induced killer cells ex vivo. These cells are activated, expanded, and incubated with pembrolizumab before being re-infused into the patient. The combination is designed to leverage the potent, non-MHC-restricted cytotoxicity of CIK cells and the antigen-presenting capabilities of dendritic cells, while the PD-1 blockade prevents immune evasion by the tumor. This regimen is primarily investigated for treatment-refractory advanced solid tumors, including hepatocellular carcinoma, renal cell carcinoma, and non-small-cell lung cancer.

Other names

Dendritic cell-stimulated cytokine-induced killer cellsD-CIK and anti-PD-1 antibodyAutologous dendritic and cytokine-induced killer cells