Invariant Natural Killer T Cell Receptor (iNKT TCR) Gene-Based Immunotherapy

Proposed method is more cost-efficient than previously described methods (i.e. generation of iNKT cells from iPS cells or donor patient cell enrichment)Cells are obtained autologously, bypassing concerns of tissue rejectioniNKT cell activation of tumor-targeting NK cells and conventional T-cells limits risk of off-target effectsThe iNKT stimulatory agent, α-GalCer, provides a clinical tool for augmenting therapy without necessitating cell transferTransplantation of the iNKT TCR-engineered blood stem cells offer a potent, life-long treatment option

Broad therapeutic potential in oncology: solid tumors, leukemia and lymphomasA cell therapy treatment candidate for aggressive autoimmune diseases and allergiesResearch tool/method to generate iNKT cell to study its function and properties

Using a novel iNKT TCR gene engineering approach, Dr. Lili Yang and colleagues at UCLA are able to engineer blood stem cells to generate large numbers of iNKT cells. Furthermore, using clinically approved immunization methods, these engineered iNKT cells can be activated and expanded further in vivo when desired. In a proof-of-concept study using an established mouse model of melanoma lung metastasis, the researchers demonstrated this new approach to be highly effective in protecting the animals from tumor metastasis.

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State Of Development

The engineered cells were successfully generated and transplanted into recipient mice. Characterizations on these cells have been completed and were demonstrated to have long-term survival, to be functional in eliciting an immune response, and possess antitumor activity.

Background

Invariant natural killer T (iNKT) cells are a subset of T lymphocytes that display natural killer (NK) cell features and express semi-invariant T cell receptors (TCRs). iNKT cells bridge the innate and adaptive immunity and have been shown to play crucial roles in immune response and tumor surveillance. Because of their importance and unique property to function without MHC restriction, these cells can function as “universal” cellular reagents for treating multiple diseases, thus are highly attractive candidate for cell-based immunotherapy. However, one limitation that prevents their use is the small number of iNKT cells in vivo (~0.01 to 1% in human blood). Current methods to expand these cells from patients’ peripheral blood have been proven costly, time-consuming and highly variable between patients. Novel approaches that can generate a large supply of iNKT cells will greatly aid in the use of these cells for therapy.

Related Materials

Genetic engineering of hematopoietic stem cells to generate invariant natural killer T cells. PNAS (2015)

Tech ID/UC Case

25062/2015-019-0

Related Cases

2015-019-0

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