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Updated: Jun 10, 2026
08:37
Purification and Expansion of Mouse Invariant Natural Killer T Cells for in vitro and in vivo Studies
Published on: February 15, 2021
Invariant natural killer T cell-based immunotherapy for cancer
Shinichiro Motohashi1, Toshinori Nakayama
1Department of Immunology, Graduate School of Medicine, Chiba University, 1-8-1 Inohana, Chuo-ku, Chiba 260-8670, Japan.
Immunotherapy
|July 20, 2010
Summary
Invariant natural killer T (iNKT) cells, a unique lymphocyte population, show promise in cancer immunotherapy. Restoring Valpha24 iNKT cell function is a potential strategy for treating malignant diseases.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Oncology
- Cell Biology
Background:
- Human Valpha24 invariant natural killer T (iNKT) cells are a distinct lymphocyte population defined by their T-cell receptor (TCR) Valpha24 chain.
- These cells are activated by the glycolipid alpha-galactosylceramide and secrete significant Th1 and Th2 cytokines, influencing other immune cells.
- iNKT cells play a crucial role in modulating diverse immune responses, notably antitumor immunity.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the progress of clinical studies involving iNKT cell-based immunotherapy.
- To highlight the specific role of Valpha24 iNKT cells in the context of cancer immunotherapy.
Main Methods:
- Review of clinical studies on iNKT cell-based immunotherapy.
- Analysis of the role of Valpha24 iNKT cells in antitumor immunity.
Main Results:
- Dysregulation in Valpha24 iNKT cell number and function is linked to poor clinical outcomes in cancer patients.
- Therapeutic approaches aimed at restoring Valpha24 iNKT cell populations and functions are being explored.
Conclusions:
- Targeting Valpha24 iNKT cells represents a rational therapeutic strategy for cancer treatment.
- Further research into iNKT cell-based immunotherapy holds significant potential for enhancing antitumor responses.
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