Adapter Chimeric Antigen Receptor (AdCAR)-Engineered NK-92 Cells for the Multiplex Targeting of Bone Metastases

Stefan Grote1, Frank Traub2, Joerg Mittelstaet3

  • 1Department of Hematology and Oncology, University Hospital Tuebingen, Children's Hospital, 72076 Tuebingen, Germany.

Cancers
|April 3, 2021
PubMed
Abstract

Insights

Engineered NK-92 cells show promise for targeted immunotherapy against bone metastases. These AdCAR NK-92 cells effectively target various cancer antigens, offering a potential "off-the-shelf" treatment.

Area of Science:

  • Immunology
  • Oncology
  • Cell Therapy

Background:

  • Metastatic spreading of solid tumors is a primary cause of cancer mortality.
  • There is a critical need for personalized and targeted immunotherapies for cancer patients.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To develop and evaluate AdCAR NK-92 cells for targeted immunotherapy against bone metastases.
  • To assess the efficacy of AdCAR NK-92 cells in vitro and in 3D spheroid models.

Main Methods:

  • Established cell lines from four bone metastases of different tumor types.
  • Assessed AdCAR NK-92 cell-mediated cytotoxicity using standard assays and 3D spheroid models.
  • Analyzed the production of NK effector molecules and pro-inflammatory cytokines.

Main Results:

  • AdCAR NK-92 cells demonstrated specific cytotoxicity against tumor antigens from mammary, renal cell, colorectal carcinomas, and melanomas.
  • Engineered NK-92 cells produced significant levels of NK effector molecules and pro-inflammatory cytokines.
  • Enhanced cytotoxicity was observed in 3D spheroid models, which better mimic in vivo tumor architecture.

Conclusions:

  • AdCAR NK-92 cells represent a promising "off-the-shelf" cellular therapy for bone metastasis.
  • The use of exchangeable adapter molecules with clinically approved antibodies can expedite clinical translation.

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