Optimizing intracellular signaling domains for CAR NK cells in HIV immunotherapy: a comprehensive review

Drug Discov Today. 2019 Apr;24(4):983-991. doi: 10.1016/j.drudis.2019.02.002. Epub 2019 Feb 13.

Abstract

Natural killer (NK) cells are innate immune lymphocytes with a key role in host defense against HIV infection. Recent advances in chimeric antigen receptors (CARs) have made NK cells a prime target for expressing recombinant receptors capable of redirecting NK cytotoxic functions towards HIV-infected cells. In this review, we discuss the role of NK cells in HIV and the mechanisms of actions of HIV-targeting CAR strategies. Furthermore, we also review NK cells signal transduction and its application to CAR NK cell strategies to develop new combinations of CAR intracellular domains and to improve CAR NK signaling and cytotoxic functions.

Publication types

  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • HIV Infections / immunology
  • HIV Infections / therapy*
  • Humans
  • Immunotherapy*
  • Killer Cells, Natural / immunology*
  • Receptors, Chimeric Antigen / immunology*
  • Signal Transduction
  • T-Lymphocytes / immunology*

Substances

  • Receptors, Chimeric Antigen