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Updated: Apr 9, 2026
Flow Cytometry-based Assay for the Monitoring of NK Cell Functions
Published on: October 30, 2016
Natural Killer Cell Immunotherapy: From Bench to Bedside
Anna Domogala1, J Alejandro Madrigal1, Aurore Saudemont1
1Anthony Nolan Research Institute , London , UK ; University College London , London , UK.
Abstract:
The potential of natural killer (NK) cells to target numerous malignancies in vitro has been well documented; however, only limited success has been seen in the clinic. Although NK cells prove non-toxic and safe regardless of the cell numbers injected, there is often little persistence and expansion observed in a patient, which is vital for mounting an effective cellular response. NK cells can be isolated directly from peripheral blood, umbilical cord blood, or bone marrow, expanded in vitro using cytokines or differentiated in vitro from hematopoietic stem cells. Drugs that support NK cell function such as lenalidomide and bortezomib have also been studied in the clinic, however, the optimum combination, which can vary among different malignancies, is yet to be identified. NK cell proliferation, persistence, and function can further be improved by various activation techniques such as priming and cytokine addition though whether stimulation pre- or post-injection is more favorable is another obstacle to be tackled. Here, we review the various methods of obtaining and activating NK cells for use in the clinic while considering the ideal product and drug complement for the most successful cellular therapy.
Insights
Natural killer (NK) cell therapy shows promise for cancer treatment but faces challenges in patient persistence and expansion. Research is exploring methods to enhance NK cell production and activation for improved clinical efficacy.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Oncology
- Cellular Therapy
Background:
- Natural killer (NK) cells demonstrate significant in vitro potential against various malignancies.
- Clinical application of NK cell therapy is limited by poor in vivo persistence and expansion.
- Current strategies involve isolating NK cells from different sources or differentiating them from hematopoietic stem cells.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review methods for obtaining and activating NK cells for clinical use.
- To identify optimal strategies for enhancing NK cell proliferation, persistence, and function.
- To consider ideal product and drug combinations for successful NK cell therapy.
Main Methods:
- Review of existing literature on NK cell isolation, expansion, and activation techniques.
- Analysis of clinical data on NK cell therapy outcomes.
- Evaluation of adjunctive drugs and stimulation methods for NK cell enhancement.
Main Results:
- NK cells are obtainable from peripheral blood, umbilical cord blood, or bone marrow.
- Cytokines, drug combinations (e.g., lenalidomide, bortezomib), and priming techniques can improve NK cell function.
- The optimal combination of methods varies by malignancy and requires further investigation.
Conclusions:
- Effective NK cell therapy requires overcoming challenges in cell persistence and expansion.
- Further research is needed to determine optimal methods for NK cell acquisition, activation, and combination therapies.
- Tailoring NK cell strategies to specific malignancies is crucial for clinical success.
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