NK cells + NKT cells

This refers to a combination cellular immunotherapy approach utilizing both natural killer (NK) cells and natural killer T (NKT) cells. Both are innate cytotoxic lymphoid populations with distinct but complementary roles in immune surveillance and antitumor immunity. NK cells are part of the innate immune system, capable of directly killing virally infected or malignant cells without prior sensitization, while NKT cells bridge innate and adaptive immunity by recognizing lipid antigens presented by CD1d molecules and producing large amounts of cytokines upon activation[1][3][6]. Combination strategies may involve adoptive transfer of ex vivo expanded or engineered NK and/or NKT cell populations, sometimes in conjunction with other agents such as α-GalCer (an NKT ligand), dendritic cell vaccines, or immune checkpoint inhibitors[1][2][3]. These therapies aim to enhance direct tumor cytotoxicity, modulate the tumor microenvironment, activate other immune effector mechanisms, and overcome immunosuppressive barriers within tumors. Clinical development is ongoing for various cancers including solid tumors; approaches include CAR-engineered versions of these cell types as well as iPSC-derived products[2][5].

Other names

natural killer cells + natural killer T cellsNK cell and NKT cell combination therapy