Cytokine-Induced Killer Cells (CIK)
Cytokine-induced killer cells (CIK) represent a subset of immunoreactive cells predominantly observed within peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC).
These specialized cells undergo isolation and purification from mononuclear leukocytes, subsequently experiencing activation and proliferation through exogenous cytokine stimulation. Demonstrating attributes similar to natural killer cells (NK), CIK cells serve as vigilant sentinels within the immune repertoire, functioning as frontline defenders against malignancies. Notably, CIK cells exhibit a remarkable capacity to target a diverse spectrum of cancer cells with minimal toxicity towards healthy tissues.
In alignment with the regulatory framework delineated by the Ministry of Health and Welfare, autoimmune cell therapy involving CIK cells is authorized for three principal indications:
- Hematologic malignancies unresponsive to conventional therapies.
- Stage I to III solid tumors unresponsive to standard interventions.
- Stage IV solid tumors.