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Publications

Journal Article Review Epublish

PubMed: 40212202 DOI: 10.1097/MS9.0000000000003002

Exploring the potential of CAR-NK cell therapy in the management of head and neck cancer (HNC): a narrative review.

Ann Med Surg (Lond) 87(4):2026-2034

Authors: Erfan Zare, Seyed MohammadHossein Mostafavi, Naeim Norouzi, Amirhossein Larijani, Seyedeh Mohadese Mosavi Mirkalaie, Seyyed Amin FallahMortezaNejad, Maryam Jafari, Erfan Shahabinejad, Masome Aghaei Lasboo, Saeid Anvari

Affiliations

  • Cancer Immunology and Immunotherapy Research Center, Ardabil University of Medical Sciences, Ardabil, Iran.
  • Students Research Committee, School of Medicine, Ardabil University of Medical Sciences, Ardabil, Iran.
  • Student Research Committee, School of Medicine, Guilan University of Medical Sciences, Rasht, Iran.
  • Regenerative Medicine, Organ Procurement and Transplantation Multi Disciplinary Center, Razi Hospital, School of Medicine, Guilan University Of Medical Sciences, Rasht, Iran.
  • Student Research Committee, School of Medicine, Anzali International Campus, Guilan University of Medical Sciences, Rasht, Iran.
  • Student Research Committee, Rafsanjan University of Medical Sciences, Rafsanjan, Iran.
  • USERN Office, Rafsanjan University of Medical Sciences, Rafsanjan, Iran.
  • Department of Internal Medicine, Guilan University of Medical Sciences, Rasht, Iran.

Abstract

Background

The management of head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) presents significant challenges due to the complex anatomy of the region and potential functional impairments caused by conventional treatments. Recent advancements in immunotherapy, particularly CAR-NK cell therapy, provide a possible option by using the innate immune system to target tumor cells.

Methods

This review focuses on the therapeutic potential of CAR-NK cell potential for head and neck cancer, covering its mechanisms, challenges, and future directions.

Results

CAR-NK cell therapy presents an innovative approach with fewer side effects compared to traditional immunotherapies. Targeting specific receptors such as PD-L1, EGFR, CD44v6, and MUC1 enhances tumor cell elimination while minimizing off-target effects. Pre-clinical and early clinical results are promising, pointing toward a possible role in personalized therapeutic options.

Conclusions

CAR-NK cells offer a novel therapeutic avenue for HNSCC by combining targeted cytotoxicity with improved safety profiles. Further research and clinical trials are imperative to optimize this approach, paving the way for advanced, patient-specific treatments.

MeSH

Cells, Killer Cells, Natural, Neoplasms, Immunotherapy, Squamous Cell Carcinoma Of Head And Neck, Receptors, Chimeric Antigen, Head And Neck Neoplasms, Therapeutics