Aminobisphosphonate-activated γδ T cells in immunotherapy of cancer:: doubts no more

Background: Activated V gamma V iota 2 T cells are able to kill most tumour cells because of recognition by T cell receptor and natural killer receptors. Objective: We discuss the possibility that the intentional activation of gamma delta T cells in vivo by aminobisphosphonates may represent a promising target for the design of novel and highly innovative immunotherapy in cancer patients. Methods: The antitumoural effects of gamma delta T cells both in vitro and in vivo have been demonstrated suggesting a new therapeutic approach for translation into the clinical setting. Results/conclusion: V gamma 9V delta 2 T lymphocytes represent a particularly interesting target for immunotherapeutic protocols based on N-aminobisphosphonate administration and several Phase I-II trials are ongoing investigating the activity of zoledronic acid plus IL-2 in solid tumours.