ALL STEM CELLS

Novel approaches using natural killer cells in cancer therapy 2006

Abstract
Strategies are emerging to apply natural killer (NK) cells as therapeutic agents against a broad range of malignancies. Novel clinical approaches
aim to overcome limitations of original therapies, which have utilized lymphokine activated killer cells or systemic cytokine treatments. Remarkable
results, including survival improvements and amelioration of graft versus host disease, were obtained with alloreactive NK cells in some cases.
Other approaches in clinical evaluation include targeting heat-shock protein (Hsp) 70 expressing tumors with pre-stimulated autologous NK cells
or the application of an NK cell line, NK-92, with enhanced cytolytic activity. Further mechanistic insights into NK cell cytotoxicity are a prelude
to improved clinical cancer therapies.
© 2006 Published by Elsevier Ltd.

Keywords: Natural killer cells; Adoptive immunotherapy; Alloreactivity; Hsp70; NK-92

Natural killer (NK) cells are part of the innate immune system
and important players in the first line of defense against
diseases, including malignancies. In contrast to cells of the adaptive
immune system, e.g., T-cells, immunization is not required
to trigger NK cell cytotoxicity.

Origin : http://cancer.cytoluminator.com/