Related Experiment Video
Updated: Apr 4, 2026
Advances in Human Induced Pluripotent Stem Cell-Derived Chimeric Antigen Receptor-Expressing Natural Killer Cells
Published on: February 14, 2025
Role of NK cells in immunotherapy and virotherapy of solid tumors
Claudia Cantoni1,2,3, Korneel Grauwet4, Gabriella Pietra1,5
1Department of Experimental Medicine (DIMES), University of Genova, Genova, Italy.
Abstract:
Although natural killer (NK) cells are endowed with powerful cytolytic activity against cancer cells, their role in different therapies against solid tumors has not yet been fully elucidated. Their interactions with various elements of the tumor microenvironment as well as their possible effects in contributing to and/or limiting oncolytic virotherapy render this potential immunotherapeutic tool still difficult to exploit at the bedside. Here, we will review the current literature with the aim of providing new hints to manage this powerful cell type in future innovative therapies, such as the use of NK cells in combination with new cytokines, specific mAbs (inducing ADCC), Tyr-Kinase inhibitors, immunomodulatory drugs and/or the design of oncolytic viruses aimed at optimizing the effect of NK cells in virotherapy.
Insights
Natural killer (NK) cells show potent anti-cancer activity but their use in solid tumor therapies is complex. This review explores strategies to optimize NK cell-based immunotherapies for better clinical outcomes.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Oncology
- Cancer Therapy
Background:
- Natural killer (NK) cells possess significant cytolytic activity against cancer cells, crucial for immune surveillance.
- The precise role of NK cells in solid tumor treatments and their interaction with the tumor microenvironment remain incompletely understood.
- Challenges exist in harnessing NK cell potential for effective immunotherapeutic applications.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review current literature on natural killer (NK) cell function in solid tumor therapies.
- To identify strategies for optimizing NK cell-based immunotherapies.
- To provide insights for managing NK cells in future innovative cancer treatments.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of existing studies on NK cells and solid tumor therapies.
- Analysis of NK cell interactions within the tumor microenvironment.
- Examination of NK cell contributions and limitations in oncolytic virotherapy.
Main Results:
- NK cell efficacy in solid tumors is influenced by complex interactions within the tumor microenvironment.
- NK cells can be modulated by various therapeutic agents and strategies.
- Optimizing NK cell function is key to enhancing immunotherapeutic outcomes.
Conclusions:
- Future therapies could leverage NK cells in combination with cytokines, monoclonal antibodies (mAbs), and tyrosine kinase inhibitors.
- Oncolytic virus design can be tailored to enhance NK cell-mediated anti-tumor effects.
- Strategic management of NK cells holds promise for advancing cancer immunotherapy.
Related Concept Videos
01:27Cytotoxic T Cells-mediated Immune Response
Immunological surveillance is the ability of immune cells to monitor and eliminate infected cells with intracellular pathogens, neoplastically transformed cells, and cells with non-self antigens. Cytotoxic T cells and NK...
01:27Tumor Immunotherapy
01:28Cells of the Innate Immune Response
Phagocytes
Phagocytes police the peripheral tissues by removing cellular debris and responding to the invasion of foreign substances or pathogens. Many phagocytes attack and remove microorganisms even before lymphocytes detect them. The human body has two general...
01:29Immune Response Against Viral Pathogens
NK Cells
NK cells are a crucial part of our innate immune system, acting as the first line of defense against viral infections. These cells can recognize and kill infected cells without prior exposure to the virus, effectively slowing down the spread of infection. Additionally, NK cells produce proinflammatory...
01:25Immune Surveillance by NK Cells and Phagocytes
Natural Killer Cells: The Fast Responders
NK cells are large granular lymphocytes found in the blood and lymphatic system. These...
02:49Cancer Therapies
However, cancer treatments can pose several challenges, as therapies used to kill cancer cells are generally also toxic to normal cells. Moreover, cancer cells mutate rapidly and can develop resistance to chemical agents or radiation therapy. Besides, all types of cancer cells may not respond to the same therapy. Some cancer cells respond to one...