anti-BCMA CAR-NK cells

A preparation of umbilical cord blood (CB)-derived natural killer cells (NKs) expressing a chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) specific for the tumor-associated antigen (TAA) B-cell maturation antigen (BCMA; tumor necrosis factor receptor superfamily member 17; TNFRSF17), with potential immunomodulating and antineoplastic activities. Upon transfusion, the anti-BCMA CAR-NK cells recognize, bind to and induce selective cytotoxicity in BCMA-expressing tumor cells. BCMA, a receptor for both a proliferation-inducing ligand (APRIL) and B-cell activating factor (BAFF), is a member of the tumor necrosis factor receptor superfamily (TNFRSF). BCMA is found on the surfaces of plasma cells, is overexpressed on malignant plasma cells and plays a key role in plasma cell proliferation and survival.