Nanomaterial-Interleukin Combination for Boosting NK Cell-Based Tumor Immunotherapy

The use of natural killer (NK) cell-based immunotherapy has been extensively explored in clinical trials for multiple types of tumors and has surfaced as a promising approach in tumor immunotherapy. Interleukins (ILs), a vital class of cytokines, play a crucial role in regulating several functions of NK cells, thereby becoming a focal point in the advancement of NK cell-based therapies. Nonetheless, the use of ILs as single agents is significantly constrained by their short half-life, limited efficacy, and adverse reactions. Currently, nanomaterials are being progressively employed in the delivery of ILs to enhance NK cell-based immunotherapy. However, there is currently a lack of comprehensive reviews summarizing the design of NK-cell-targeted nanomaterials and related systems for delivery of ILs. Furthermore, certain nanomaterials, either alone or in conjunction with other therapeutics, can also promote the secretion of ILs, representing a promising avenue for further exploration. Accordingly, this review begins by outlining various types of ILs and subsequently discusses the advancements in applying nanomaterials for IL delivery. It also examines the potential of nanomaterials to enhance IL secretion from other immune cells, thereby influencing the NK cell functionality. Lastly, this review addresses the challenges associated with using nanomaterials in these contexts and offers perspectives for future research. This study aims to provide valuable insights into the development of NK cell immunotherapy and innovative nanomaterial-based drug delivery systems.