Cookies on this website

We use cookies to ensure that we give you the best experience on our website. If you click 'Accept all cookies' we'll assume that you are happy to receive all cookies and you won't see this message again. If you click 'Reject all non-essential cookies' only necessary cookies providing core functionality such as security, network management, and accessibility will be enabled. Click 'Find out more' for information on how to change your cookie settings.

Although natural killer (NK) cells can be readily generated for adoptive therapy with current techniques, their optimal application to treat malignant diseases requires an appreciation of the dynamic balance between signals that either synergize with or antagonize each other. Individuals display wide differences in NK function that determine their therapeutic efficacy. The ability of NK cells to kill target cells or produce cytokines depends on the balance between signals from activating and inhibitory cell-surface receptors. The selection of NK cells with a predominant activating profile is critical for delivering successful anti-tumor activity. This can be achieved through selection of killer immunoglobulin-like receptor-mismatched NK donors and by use of blocking molecules against inhibitory pathways. Optimum NK cytotoxicity may require licensing or priming with tumor cells. Recent discoveries in the molecular and cellular biology of NK cells inform in the design of new strategies, including adjuvant therapies, to maximize the cytotoxic potential of NK cells for adoptive transfer to treat human malignancies.

Original publication

DOI

10.1016/j.jcyt.2014.03.009

Type

Journal article

Journal

Cytotherapy

Publication Date

11/2014

Volume

16

Pages

1453 - 1466

Keywords

C-type lectin, graft-versus-leukemia, immunotherapy, killer immunoglobulin-like receptors, natural cytotoxicity receptors, natural killer, Adoptive Transfer, Graft vs Leukemia Effect, Humans, Immunotherapy, Adoptive, Killer Cells, Natural, Lectins, C-Type, Leukemia, Receptors, KIR