Natural killer(NK) cell therapy is a cutting-edge treatment for cancer that is generating excitement in the medical world. This innovative immunotherapy harnesses the power of the body’s own immune system to fight cancer cells. In this article, we’ll explore how NK cell therapy works and what it could mean for patients with cancer.

What are NK cells and how do they work?

NK cells are a type of white blood cell that play a critical role in the body’s immune system. They are able to recognize and destroy abnormal cells, including cancer cells, without prior exposure, by triggering the release of cytokines, killing the cells by lysis or apoptosis.

How is NK cell therapy used in cancer treatment?

NK cell therapy is used in cancer treatment by isolating and multiplying these cells outside of the body and then infusing them back into the patient to enhance the body’s natural ability to fight cancer. One approach to enhance the anti-tumour activity of NK cells is to engineer them to express chimeric antigen receptors (CARs) similar to those used in CAR-T cell therapy.

CAR-NK cells are generated by genetically modifying the NK cell to express CARs that recognize specific tumour antigens. These CAR-NK cells are then expanded in vitro and infused back into the patient. Once infused, the CAR-NK cells can recognize and eliminate tumour cells expressing the target antigen.

What are the advantages of NK cell therapy?

There are many benefits to NK cell therapy. Firstly, it is a targeted therapy that specifically targets cancer cells, leaving healthy cells unharmed. This means that patients may experience fewer side effects than with traditional cancer treatments. Secondly, NK cells have been shown to be effective in targeting solid tumours, which are often difficult to treat with other therapies. Finally, NK cell therapy has the potential to be used in combination with other cancer treatments, enhancing their effectiveness and potentially reducing the need for more aggressive treatments.

What types of cancer can be treated with NK cell therapy?

NK cell therapy has shown promise in treating a variety of cancers, including leukaemia, lymphoma, multiple myeloma, and solid tumours such as breast, lung, and ovarian cancer. However, more research is needed to determine the full potential of this therapy and its effectiveness in treating different types and stages of cancer. Clinical trials are currently underway to further explore the use of NK cell therapy in cancer treatment.

What are the potential side effects and risks of NK cell therapy?

As with any medical treatment, there are potential side effects and risks associated with NK cell therapy. These can include fever, chills, nausea, vomiting, low blood pressure, and allergic reactions. In rare cases, the therapy can cause severe side effects such as organ damage or failure. It’s important for patients to discuss the potential risks and benefits of NK cell therapy with their healthcare provider before undergoing treatment.