Definition

A preparation of allogeneic, off-the shelf, natural killer T cells (NKTs) expressing an invariant (alpha, beta) T-cell receptor (iNKTs), with potential immunomodulating and antineoplastic activities. Upon administration of allogeneic iNKT agenT-797, the invariant T-cell receptor (TCR) and natural-killer group 2, member D receptor (NKG2D; KLRK1; natural killer cell activating receptor group 2D) expressed by these cells recognize CD1d-restricted lipid ligands and stress ligands, which are expressed on certain tumor cells. These receptor-ligand interactions may induce the secretion of large amounts of various pro-inflammatory cytokines, including interferon gamma (IFN-g), and activate the immune system against tumor cells. Additionally, iNKTs directly target and lyse tumor cells.