Publication Date
12-15-2025
Journal
Clinical Cancer Research
DOI
10.1158/1078-0432.CCR-25-0197
PMID
41118265
PMCID
PMC12616409
PubMedCentral® Posted Date
11-15-2025
PubMedCentral® Full Text Version
Author MSS
Abstract
Chimeric antigen receptor (CAR)-engineered invariant NK T cells (CAR-NKT) are a novel cell platform for cancer immunotherapy. Unlike conventional T cells, NKTs are characterized by innate antitumor properties, minimal alloreactivity, and a unique ability to modulate the tumor microenvironment. This article provides a comprehensive overview of preclinical and early clinical studies evaluating CAR-NKTs in both autologous and allogeneic clinical settings. We discuss the contributions of CAR signaling domains, cytokine coexpression, and other functional measures that correlate with CAR-NKT persistence, function, and metabolic fitness. We also discuss the critical role of immunocompetent animal models in elucidating the interactions of CAR-NKTs with the tumor microenvironment and other components of the immune system. Finally, we review strategies that combine CAR-NKTs with other therapeutic approaches to promote potential synergistic benefits in patients with cancer.
Keywords
Humans, Receptors, Chimeric Antigen, Immunotherapy, Adoptive, Animals, Neoplasms, Tumor Microenvironment, Natural Killer T-Cells
Published Open-Access
yes
Recommended Citation
Courtney, Amy N; Zhou, Xin; Tian, Gengwen; et al., "Facts and Hopes of Chimeric Antigen Receptor-Redirected NK T Cells" (2025). Faculty, Staff and Students Publications. 6329.
https://digitalcommons.library.tmc.edu/baylor_docs/6329