Review Article
 

CAR-NK Cells and the Tumor Microenvironment: Emerging Opportunities, Challenges, and the Road Beyond Controversies.

Abstract

Chimeric antigen receptor–natural killer (CAR-NK) cell therapy holds significant promise for cancer immunotherapy due to its efficient recognition and lysis of malignant cells. Despite the potential of CAR-NK therapy as a safer and more effective immunotherapeutic strategy, researchers are actively focusing on addressing its limitations. These include enhancing persistence, optimizing genetic engineering methods, and standardizing the production process for wider clinical applicability. The development of novel generations of CAR-NK cells, combined with a deeper understanding of their behavior in solid tumors, could potentially revolutionize cancer cell therapy and improve patient outcomes in the near future. However, to improve clinical outcomes and facilitate the broader application of CAR-NK cell therapies, we must address challenges related to the optimization of CAR constructs, in vivo persistence, tumor penetration, safety, and regulatory considerations. Overall, the article presents an extensive review of the challenges and potential
strategies for improving the long-term antitumor efficacy of CAR-NK cell therapy, emphasizing the importance of combination therapies, drug delivery methods, and immune checkpoint blockade in enhancing the effectiveness of NK cell–based immunotherapy. The paper provides valuable insights into the intricate mechanisms and potential future applications of these strategies in cancer immunotherapy.

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Cancer-associated fibroblasts Cancer immunotherapy CAR-NK cell therapy CAR-T cells therapy Chimeric antigen receptor Natural killer cells Tumor microenvironment

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Emami Nejad A, Shaverdi S, Taherian M, Forouzan A, Sadoogh Abbasian A, Rohani M, Ahmadlou M, Matin Ishaghi SM, Sheydaee E, Najafgholian S, Manian M. CAR-NK Cells and the Tumor Microenvironment: Emerging Opportunities, Challenges, and the Road Beyond Controversies. Iran J Allergy Asthma Immunol. 2026;:1-35.