Single Biggest Cancer Dictionary in the World

What is autologous cytokine-induced killer cells?

Pronunciation: /autologous* cytokine* ˌɪnˈdust ˈkɪlər sɛlz/

autologous cytokine-induced killer cells

Definition

A proprietary formulation of autologous cytokine-induced killer (CIK) T lymphocytes, with immunopotentiating and antineoplastic activities. These CIK cells are generated by ex vivo incubation of autologous peripheral blood lymphocytes with an undisclosed mixture of compounds to stimulate killer T-cell differentiation; this is followed by expansion of the cells. Upon reintroduction into the patient, the autologous CIK cells are able to target and kill tumor cells.