MIT researchers reported on Oct. 13 a technique for programming natural killer (NK) immune cells inside the body to target cancerous or autoreactive T cells. The study, published in Nature Biotechnology, described using lipid nanoparticles carrying messenger RNA to encode chimeric antigen receptors (CARs) on NK cells, avoiding the need to remove and manufacture cells outside the body. Daniel Anderson, a professor in MIT's Department of Chemical Engineering, was senior author.

In mice, the researchers reported reprogramming about 80 percent of targeted NK cells. In a mouse model of an aggressive melanoma, three of five mice given the nanoparticles went into complete remission. In a humanized mouse model of T cell lymphoma, tumors were reported eradicated after five injections, similar to results with conventionally manufactured CAR NK cells. In mice with autoimmune hepatitis, autoreactive T cells were destroyed and liver damage healed after one injection.

The authors suggested the approach could eventually address autoimmune conditions involving dysfunctional T cells, such as multiple sclerosis and rheumatoid arthritis. The work was preclinical, and the source reported no human trial results. Funding came from Sanofi, the Marble Center for Cancer Nanomedicine, and a Koch Institute Support Grant from the National Cancer Institute.