Killer cells against the most aggressive lung cancer
Researchers from the Lungsearch Group demonstrate that a new strategy to activate natural killer lymphocytes significantly reduces tumors in animal models.
September 30, 2025
Researchers at Cima Universidad de Navarra have developed a strategy that significantly reduces the most aggressive form of lung cancer. It involves a new activation of NK (natural killer) lymphocytes that has proven effective in animal models of small cell lung cancer.
One of the characteristics of this type of cancer is its immunosuppression, that is, its ability to disable the immune system so that it cannot fight the tumor. “Our research has consisted of a strategy aimed at eliminating this immunosuppression and reactivating NK cell function. To do this, we used animal models of small cell lung cancer and combined treatments of the drug Dasatinib and immunotherapy, such as PD-1 and CTLA4 immune checkpoint inhibitors,” explains Dr. Alfonso Calvo, researcher at the Early Detection and New Therapeutic Targets for Lung Cancer Group at Cima Universidad de Navarra and director of the study.