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Updated: Jan 25, 2026
08:17
Flow Cytometry-based Assay for the Monitoring of NK Cell Functions
Published on: October 30, 2016
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NK cells to cure cancer
Clara Di Vito1, Joanna Mikulak2, Elisa Zaghi1
1Unit of Clinical and Experimental Immunology, Humanitas Clinical and Research Center, Rozzano, Milan, Italy.
Seminars in Immunology
|May 16, 2019
Summary
Natural Killer (NK) cells play a dual role in cancer immunity. This review explores NK cell immune checkpoints and genetic modifications to enhance their anti-tumor functions for cancer therapy.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Oncology
- Cell Biology
Background:
- Natural Killer (NK) cells are crucial innate lymphocytes for immune surveillance against viral infections and transformed cells.
- NK cells exhibit a complex role in cancer, potentially inhibiting or promoting tumor progression and immune suppression.
- Tumor escape mechanisms involve aberrant NK cell receptor expression, impaired migration, and reduced effector functions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review current understanding of NK cell receptors and molecules as prognostic factors and therapeutic targets.
- To discuss advances in genetically modified and expanded NK cells for adoptive cellular transfer therapies.
- To highlight strategies for unleashing NK cell anti-tumor effector functions.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of experimental and clinical evidence on NK cell biology in cancer.
- Analysis of current clinical applications of NK cell receptors and related molecules.
- Overview of recent developments in NK cell genetic modification and ex vivo expansion.
Main Results:
- NK cell immune checkpoints and their aberrant expression are key mechanisms of tumor escape.
- NK cell receptors and associated molecules are emerging as prognostic indicators and therapeutic targets.
- Genetic modification and ex vivo expansion are advancing adoptive NK cell therapies.
Conclusions:
- Targeting NK cell immune checkpoints and enhancing their effector functions are promising strategies for cancer immunotherapy.
- Adoptive transfer of engineered NK cells represents an innovative therapeutic approach for cancer treatment.
- Further research into NK cell biology and therapeutic manipulation is essential for improving cancer outcomes.
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