Autologous Immune Enhancement Therapy for Cancer - Our experience since 2004.

Area of Science:

• Immunology
• Oncology
• Cell Therapy

Background:

• Cancer immunotherapy, particularly cell-based approaches, has advanced significantly over the past three decades.
• Natural Killer (NK) cells and Cytotoxic T Lymphocytes (CTLs) are key immune components investigated for cancer treatment.
• Autologous Immune Enhancement Therapy (AIET) utilizes a patient's own immune cells for cancer treatment.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the efficacy and safety of Autologous Immune Enhancement Therapy (AIET) using expanded NK cells and CTLs.
• To explore the potential of combining AIET with conventional cancer treatments.
• To support research and clinical applications of immune cell-based therapies at the Biotherapy Institute of Japan (BIJ).

Main Methods:

• AIET involves isolating patient lymphocytes, expanding and activating NK cells in vitro, and re-infusing them.
• Combination therapies explored include NK cells with CTLs, NK cells with Dendritic Cells (DCs), and AIET with hyperthermia or monoclonal antibodies.
• Studies involved in vitro cell expansion, animal models (NOG SCID mice), and clinical trials in patients with advanced cancers.

Main Results:

• In vitro expansion of NK cells increased cytotoxic ability 5-10 fold.
• AIET demonstrated efficacy in reducing tumor size and volume in preclinical models.
• Clinical studies showed objective responses (CR, PR) and disease control in advanced cancers refractory to conventional therapy, with no adverse effects reported.

Conclusions:

• AIET, especially when combined with other modalities like hyperthermia and low-dose chemotherapy, is effective in treating advanced and refractory cancers.
• A multi-pronged approach integrating cell-based immunotherapy with conventional treatments is crucial for effective cancer management.
• AIET represents a promising therapeutic strategy with a favorable safety profile for cancer patients.