Research into neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s, ALS, and multiple sclerosis is increasingly focusing on the potential role of Natural Killer (NK) cells. These cells, part of the body’s innate immune system, are known for their ability to detect and respond to abnormal, stressed, or infected cells, as well as their influence on inflammatory responses. However, while the therapeutic potential of NK cells in these conditions is being explored, researchers caution that the evidence is still in preliminary stages and far from establishing NK cell therapy as a viable treatment option.
A Phase I clinical study published in 2025 highlights early human trials involving NK cells in Alzheimer’s disease. In this study, 11 participants received intravenous infusions of an autologous, non-genetically modified expanded NK cell product every three weeks. The primary goal was to assess safety, alongside monitoring cognitive measures and cerebrospinal fluid biomarkers related to neuroinflammation and neurodegeneration. While the study reported no adverse events directly linked to the NK cell product, and observed preliminary changes in cognitive measures and biomarkers like pTau181 and GFAP, it was not designed to evaluate the treatment’s ability to prevent or slow the progression of Alzheimer’s. More extensive trials will be necessary to determine any significant clinical benefits.
In the realm of Parkinson’s disease, preclinical studies have shown intriguing results regarding NK cells. A 2020 study found that NK cells could interact with and degrade alpha-synuclein aggregates—proteins associated with Parkinson’s—in laboratory and animal models. This study also noted increased alpha-synuclein pathology and neuroinflammation when NK cells were depleted in mice. These findings suggest a regulatory role for NK cells in the immune activity associated with Parkinson’s, although translating these results into human treatment remains a challenge.
The complexity of NK cells’ roles in neurological diseases is becoming increasingly evident. Researchers are delving into how different NK cell populations and their activation states might impact various diseases, their stages, and the tissue environments. As a result, simply boosting NK cell numbers might not be beneficial. Critical questions still need answering before NK cell therapies can be seen as viable options for neurodegenerative diseases, including their potential to influence the central nervous system effectively and their long-term impact on disease progression.
While NK cells are acknowledged as active immune players, their therapeutic application in neurodegenerative diseases is not yet established. Despite promising early research, extensive clinical studies are essential to confirm their effectiveness and long-term safety. As NK cell therapy remains an investigational area, individuals are advised to consult healthcare professionals and carefully evaluate existing scientific evidence before considering such treatments. This information is intended for educational purposes and should not be taken as medical advice.
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