NK CELLS

NK cells (Natural Killer cells) are like the special forces of our immune system. They can recognize and destroy cancer cells without prior sensitization. Unlike chemo, which can harm healthy cells, NK cells target cancer cells specifically.

NK cells have shown promise in immunotherapy, especially for certain types of blood cancers. They're being explored for their potential to provide more targeted and less toxic treatments.

Chemo, on the other hand, is a more traditional approach that can be effective but often comes with harsh side effects.

What are NK Cells?

What Synthetic NK Cells Do

CAR-mediated killing (synthetic receptor binds tumor antigen)

Perforin/granzyme release

Death-receptor pathways (FasL, TRAIL)

Antibody-dependent killing (ADCC)

This gives them multiple ways to kill, reducing the chance that tumors escape detection

Synthetic NK cells are not built from scratch like a robot — they are real NK cells that have been engineered using biotechnology.

They may be modified to: Express synthetic antigen-recognition receptors (CARs)

Produce cytokines like IL-15 to help them survive longer Resist tumor-induced suppression

Improve their ability to expand in the lab Target specific cancer markers (e.g., CD19, HER2, GD2)

These cancers are the most responsive because NK cells circulate easily in the bloodstream and bone marrow.

• Leukemia (especially CD19-positive types)

• Lymphoma

• Multiple myeloma

• Ovarian cancer (especially recurrent, stem-like tumor cells)

• Pancreatic cancer

• Other advanced solid tumors

Blood Cancers (Strongest Evidence)