DOI: 10.12890/2026_007198

Invariant natural killer T cell–based immunotherapy using alpha-galactosylceramide–pulsed CD14+ monocytes for advanced gallbladder cancer

Authors

  • Keigo Hanada R&D Department, Ambicion Co., Ltd., Tokyo, Japan
  • Katsyuki Kobayashi KT Clinic (currently affiliated with Yotsuya Medical Cube), Tokyo, Japan 0000-0001-8673-8986

hanada@ambicion.co.jp

Keywords

Gallbladder cancer, invariant natural killer T cells, α-galactosylceramide, CD14+ monocytes, immunotherapy

Abstract

Introduction: Gallbladder cancer is a rare and aggressive malignancy. Patients with unresectable or metastatic disease generally have poor outcomes despite standard chemotherapy. Novel immunotherapeutic strategies that enhance antitumor immunity are of considerable clinical interest. Invariant natural killer T (iNKT) cells rapidly produce cytokines and activate immune effector cells, representing a potential target for immunotherapy.
Case description: We report a case of advanced gallbladder cancer treated with gemcitabine chemotherapy in combination with autologous iNKT cell–targeted therapy. Peripheral blood CD14+ monocytes were isolated, pulsed in vitro with alpha-galactosylceramide (alpha-GalCer), and administered intravenously to activate iNKT cells in vivo. Post-treatment contrast-enhanced computed tomography scan demonstrated shrinkage of multiple liver metastases and reduction in intra-abdominal lymphadenopathy. Liver function markers improved, and interferon-gamma–producing cells increased, indicating systemic immune activation. The therapy was well tolerated, with only mild transient fever observed.
Discussion: Although the specific contribution of immunotherapy cannot be definitively separated from concomitant chemotherapy, the temporal association between alpha-GalCer–pulsed CD14+ monocytes (GC-MO) administration, immune activation, and clinical improvement suggests a potential synergistic effect. Activation of iNKT cells may enhance antitumor immunity, contributing to tumour regression and improved hepatic function. This case highlights the feasibility and safety of combining iNKT-targeted therapy with standard chemotherapy in advanced gallbladder cancer.
Conclusion: iNKT cell–targeted immunotherapy using GC-MO may serve as a promising adjunctive strategy for advanced gallbladder cancer. Further studies are warranted to validate its efficacy and define its role in combination with conventional chemotherapy.

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Published

2026-07-13

Issue

Vol. 13 No. 8 (2026)

Categories

How to Cite

1.
Hanada K, Kobayashi K. Invariant natural killer T cell–based immunotherapy using alpha-galactosylceramide–pulsed CD14+ monocytes for advanced gallbladder cancer. EJCRIM [Internet]. 2026 Jul. 13 [cited 2026 Nov. 3];13(8). Available from: https://ejcrim.com/index.php/ejcrim/article/view/7198