Fig. 2. Bypassing iNKT cell defects with CD1d cross-linking.
iNKT defects in cancer shown in red. CD1d mAb can stimulate CD1d+ APC maturation and IL-12 production (86,87). This can lead to activation of downstream Th1-type effectors such as NK cells, resulting in anti-tumor (green) as well as anti-viral effects (87-89). Blocking of Type 2 non- invariant CD1d-reactive T cells with Th2 bias may also contribute to net gain in anti-tumor activity. FInally, a direct pro-apoptotic effect of CD1d mAb on CD1d+ tumor cells has also been described (69), potentially augmenting this effect.