Does an NKT-cell-based immunotherapeutic approach have a future in multiple myeloma?

Abstract

Natural killer T (NKT) cells constitute a unique subset of innate-like T lymphocytes which differ from conventional T cells by recognizing lipid antigens presented bythe non-polymorphic major histocompatibility complex (MHC) I-like molecule CD1d. Despite being a relatively infrequent population of lymphocytes, NKT cells can respond rapidly upon activation with glycosphingolipids by production of cytokines which aim to polarize different axes of the immune system. Due to their dual effect or capacities, NKT cells can play a vital role in cancer immunity, infection, inflammation and autoimmune diseases. It is believed that modulation of their activity towardsimmune activation can be a useful tool in anti-tumor immunotherapeutic strategies. Here we summarize the characteristics of NKT cells and discuss their involvementin immunosurveillance. Furthermore, an update is given about their role and theprogress that has been made in the field of multiple myeloma (MM). Finally, somechallenges are discussed that are currently hampering further progress.