Scientists Develop Drug Method to Boost Natural Killer Cells Against Multiple Cancers
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Researchers at McGill University have developed a new method to strengthen the cancer-fighting abilities of natural killer (NK) cells by blocking two specific proteins. In preclinical studies, these enhanced cells killed human cancer cells from leukemia, glioblastoma, kidney cancer, and triple-negative breast cancer, and slowed tumor growth in animal models. The team aims to test the therapy in human clinical trials, with acute myeloid leukemia as a potential first target.
Facts First
- Method uses small-molecule drugs to temporarily boost natural killer (NK) cell activity, avoiding permanent genetic modification.
- Enhanced NK cells killed human cancer cells from leukemia, glioblastoma, kidney cancer, and triple-negative breast cancer in lab studies.
- Treatment slowed tumor growth in animal models, according to the preclinical research.
- Research team aims for human clinical trials, with acute myeloid leukemia identified as a potential first target.
- NK cells were sourced from donated umbilical cord blood, isolated and stored by the Cellular Therapy Laboratory at the Research Institute of McGill University Health Centre.
What Happened
Scientists at McGill University's Rosalind & Morris Goodman Cancer Institute developed a method to strengthen natural killer (NK) cells. The method uses small-molecule drugs to block two specific proteins to temporarily increase the cells' activity. In preclinical studies, these enhanced NK cells killed human cancer cells from leukemia, glioblastoma, kidney cancer, and triple-negative breast cancer. The treatment approach also slowed tumor growth in animal models. The NK cells used were isolated, cultured, and stored from donated umbilical cord blood by the Cellular Therapy Laboratory.
Why this Matters to You
This research represents a potential new avenue for cancer therapy that could be more accessible than current cell-based treatments. Because the method uses temporary drug treatments rather than permanent genetic engineering, it may be simpler and faster to administer to patients. If successful in future trials, this approach could expand treatment options for several aggressive cancers, including acute myeloid leukemia, glioblastoma, and triple-negative breast cancer.
What's Next
The research team aims to eventually test the therapy in human clinical trials, with acute myeloid leukemia identified as a potential first target. Proposed clinical trials are currently awaiting funding and regulatory approval, which will determine the timeline for moving this research from the lab to patient care.