USA: Medical researchers at the University of Minnesota have developed an experimental method for treating hard-to-treat blood cancers using natural killer cells pre-treated with nicotinamide, a compound commonly known as vitamin B3. These natural killer cells are part of the body's immune system and have the unique ability to target and destroy malignant cells.
A recent study, published in Science Translational Medicine by Frank Cichocki and colleagues, highlights the potential of this approach in treating relapsed or refractory leukemias and lymphomas, where traditional treatments have often failed. The study involved boosting the effectiveness of natural killer cells through pre-treatment with nicotinamide and interleukin-15 (IL-15).

Here are some key findings from the study:
Enhanced Natural Killer Cell Activity: Nicotinamide, also known as vitamin B3, was found to enhance the activity of natural killer cells. These cells play a crucial role in controlling cancer and invasive microbes in the body.
Improved Persistence: Nicotinamide not only boosted the activity but also improved the persistence of natural killer cells in the bloodstream. This means they remained active and effective for longer periods.
Effective Cancer Targeting: The enhanced natural killer cells demonstrated a heightened ability to locate and destroy cancer cells, particularly in lymph nodes. This targeting capability is essential for eradicating cancerous cells.
Safety and Efficacy: In a small clinical trial involving 30 patients with relapsed or difficult-to-treat non-Hodgkin lymphoma, the combination of nicotinamide-enhanced natural killer cells and monoclonal antibody treatment was safe and effective. Among the non-Hodgkin lymphoma patients, 11 achieved a complete response, and three had a partial response within 28 days of treatment. Mechanism of Action: Nicotinamide was found to protect natural killer cells from oxidative stress and promote stability in crucial transcription factors. These factors regulate genes involved in metabolism, cell cycle progression, and programmed cell death.
The promising results from this preliminary study suggest that the combination therapy involving nicotinamide-enhanced natural killer cells should be further investigated in larger clinical trials.
The study represents a novel approach to treating blood cancers and offers hope for patients who have not responded to conventional therapies. While more research is needed, the findings open the door to innovative cancer treatments that harness the body's immune system to combat cancer more effectively.
The researchers note that while these results are promising, they are based on a small-scale study, and further research is required to confirm the safety and efficacy of this treatment approach in larger patient populations.
Reference:
Frank Cichocki et al, Nicotinamide enhances natural killer cell function and yields remissions in patients with non-Hodgkin lymphoma, Science Translational Medicine (2023). DOI: 10.1126/scitranslmed.ade3341