Immunotherapy (NK T Cell)

NK cells, or “Natural Killer Cells", are responsible for identifying and attacking abnormalities in the body. However, their immune activity often declines with aging or stress, weakening the immune system and increasing the risk of various diseases.

NK cells have the highest cytotoxic activity against cancer cells among immune cells. We collect your blood, culture and activate the NK cells, and then reintroduce them into your body. This method enhances your body's natural immune cells, minimizing stress on the body while safely targeting cancer and infectious diseases. An additional benefit of this treatment is its ability to complement other cancer and infectious disease therapies.

This cycle, if repeated periodically, will build up a very high level of immune strength that enhances overall health, and improve the body’s capacity to fight diseases.

Natural Killer (NK) cells are a type of lymphocyte related to T and B cells, arising from a common progenitor. However, as part of the innate immune system, NK cells are classified as group I Innate Lymphoid Cells (ILCs) and are known for their rapid response to various pathological threats. They are most recognized for destroying virus-infected cells and detecting as well as controlling early signs of cancer. Besides their role in immune defense, specialized NK cells are also found in the placenta, suggesting a potential role in pregnancy.

NK cells were initially identified for their ability to destroy tumor cells without requiring prior activation or priming, unlike cytotoxic T cells that need to be primed by antigen-presenting cells. This innate ability to kill cells gives NK cells their name. In addition to their cytotoxic functions, NK cells secrete cytokines such as IFNγ and TNFα, which activate other immune cells, like macrophages and dendritic cells, to boost the immune response.

As they patrol the body, NK cells continuously interact with other cells. Whether an NK cell decides to kill a particular cell depends on signals from activating and inhibitory receptors on its surface. Activating receptors detect molecules present on the surface of infected or cancerous cells, triggering the NK cell to respond. Inhibitory receptors, on the other hand, serve to prevent unnecessary cell killing. Most healthy cells display MHC I molecules, marking them as‘self', which are recognized by the NK cell's inhibitory receptors, preventing them from attacking. However, infected or cancerous cells often lose their MHC I expression, making them more susceptible to NK cell-mediated killing. Once an NK cell is activated to kill, it releases cytotoxic granules containing perforin and granzymes, which lead to the destruction of the target cell.

The genes encoding both MHC I and the NK cell inhibitory receptors that recognize them show significant variation between individuals. The specific alleles a person carries for these genes have been associated with their ability to combat HIV infections and their susceptibility to certain autoimmune diseases. NK cell characteristics also change with age and can be influenced by chronic viral infections, such as cytomegalovirus (CMV).

Due to their tumor-killing capabilities, NK cells are an appealing focus for cancer immunotherapies. Some monoclonal antibody therapies rely on NK cells to eliminate cancer cells. In addition, researchers are exploring treatments that activate NK cells using small molecules or cytokines and are even testing genetically engineered NK cells as potential therapies.