Utilization of invariant natural killer T cells for gastric cancer treatment

Abstract

Aim: To evaluate the expression of CD1d and the susceptibility to invariant natural killer T (iNKT) cells in gastric cancer. Methods: The expression of CD1d was examined in gastric cancer. The in vitro and in vivo cytotoxic activities of iNKT cells were evaluated against gastric cancer cell lines. Results: CD1d was expressed in gastric cancer cell lines and primary tumors. iNKT cells have potent in vivo and in vitro anti-tumor activities against CD1d-positve gastric cancer in the presence of α-galactosylceramide. Cisplatin could upregulate CD1d expression in gastric cancer cells and make them more vulnerable to iNKT cell-mediated cytotoxicity. Conclusion: These results justified clinical translation of this iNKT cell-based therapeutics, either used alone or combined with chemotherapy, for the treatment of patients with gastric cancer.