Definition

Human leukocyte antigen (HLA)-haploidentical donor-derived natural killer (NK) cells that are activated with the cytokine interleukin-15 (IL-15), with immunomodulating and antineoplastic activities. Upon leukapheresis, the HLA-haploidentical donor peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) are treated to remove T lymphocytes (CD3+) and B-lymphocytes (CD19+) cells. In turn, NK cells are expanded and activated with IL-15. Upon infusion of the allogeneic CD3- CD19- selected NK cells, these cells recognize and bind to tumor cells, and secrete perforins, granzymes, and cytokines, which results in cancer cell lysis.