Fucoidan potentiates CAR NK cell-mediated antitumor efficacy against non-Hodgkin lymphoma via NRF2

Zhenhai Li1, Xuanren Shi2, Fei Wang3

  • 1Department of Hematology, Peking University Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen, Guangdong, 518036, China.

PubMed

Insights

Fucoidan (FO) enhances CAR NK cell therapy for non-Hodgkin lymphoma by boosting cell function and persistence. This study shows FO as a potential adjuvant for cellular immunotherapy, improving treatment outcomes.

Area of Science:

  • Immunology
  • Oncology
  • Biochemistry

Background:

  • Cellular immunotherapy, particularly CAR NK cell therapy, shows promise for cancer treatment.
  • Fucoidan (FO) is known for synergistic effects with anticancer drugs, but its role in cellular immunotherapy is unexplored.
  • Non-Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL) is a target for novel therapeutic strategies.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the role of fucoidan (FO) in enhancing CAR NK cell therapy for non-Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL).
  • To determine if FO can improve the functionality, metabolism, and persistence of CAR NK cells.

Main Methods:

  • CAR NK cells were treated with FO in vitro and in vivo.
  • NRF2 activity, cellular energetic metabolism, and antioxidant capacity were assessed.
  • Cytotoxicity against NHL cells and cytokine secretion were measured.
  • Efficacy was evaluated in a mouse model of NHL.

Main Results:

  • FO treatment augmented NRF2 activity, improved energetic metabolism, and increased antioxidant capacity in CAR NK cells.
  • FO-enhanced CAR NK cells exhibited increased cytotoxicity against NHL cells and elevated cytokine secretion.
  • FO prolonged the persistence of CAR NK cells and demonstrated significant efficacy in eradicating NHL in vivo, extending survival.

Conclusions:

  • Fucoidan (FO) supports and enhances CAR NK cell therapy for NHL by improving cell function and persistence.
  • FO shows potential as an effective adjuvant for clinical cellular immunotherapy strategies.
  • These findings open new avenues for leveraging FO in combination cancer therapies.