METHODS OF EXPANDING EX VIVO NATURAL KILLER T (NKT) CELLS AND THERAPEUTIC USES THEREOF

摘要

The present invention is directed to novel methods of producing ex vivo natural killer T (NKT) cells, and therapeutic uses thereof for treatment of certain conditions including cancer, autoimmunity, inflammatory disorders, allergic disorders, tissue transplant-related disorders, and infections.

主权项

1. A method for expanding natural killer T (NKT) cells ex vivo, said method comprising the steps of:
(a) harvesting cells from a subject, wherein the cells are selected from the group consisting of peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs), bone marrow cells, umbilical cord blood cells, and cells of Wharton's jelly; (b) stimulating cells harvested in step (a) with (i) a glycolipid or a CD1 reagent, (ii) IL-2, and (iii) IL-7; (c) purifying the resulting stimulated NKT cells, and/or any subset of CD3+γδ-TCR+ T cells to at least 50% purity by flow cytometry or a magnetic particle-based enrichment procedure; (d) expanding the NKT cells purified in step (c) in the presence of (i) autologous or allogeneic PBMC feeder cells, (ii) anti-CD3 antibody or anti-TCR-Vα24+ antibody, and (iii) IL-2 and/or IL-7, and (e) optionally re-stimulating the NKT cells expanded in step (d) in the presence of IL-2 and IL-7, and optionally IL-15.