NATURAL KILLER CELLS
A first line of defense against cancer1
In multiple myeloma, Natural Killer Cells scan the body in search of myeloma
cells and once recognized, may become activated to exert cytotoxicity
against these cells while sparing normal cells.2-6
However, as a consequence of multiple myeloma, immune function
declines significantly over time and mechanisms of immune evasion and
immunosuppression impair Natural Killer Cell activity.2,5,7-14
Directly enhancing Natural Killer Cell activity is a fundamentally different
approach under investigation for multiple myeloma. SLAMF7, along
with KIR and CD137, are among cell surface proteins that have been
implicated in regulating Natural Killer Cell activity.15-17
A CLOSER LOOK AT NATURAL KILLER CELL-MEDIATED CYTOTOXICITY:
Once a malignant cell is recognized, Natural Killer Cells can release cytotoxic
granules, among other mechanisms, to elicit targeted cell death18-20
Natural Killer Cell
Natural
Killer Cell
cytotoxic
granules
Myeloma
cell
Cytotoxic Granule Release19
Myeloma
cell
Targeted Cell Death19