hiPSC-Derived M1 Macrophages Exhibit Synergistic Therapeutic Effects with Paclitaxel in Ovarian Cancer
- Author:
Suji JEONG
1
;
Seho CHA
;
Haengseok SONG
;
Heesoon CHANG
;
Sung Hun NA
;
Seok-Ho HONG
;
Mira PARK
Author Information
- Publication Type:BRIEF REPORT
- From:International Journal of Stem Cells 2026;19(1):93-101
- CountryRepublic of Korea
- Language:English
- Abstract: Ovarian cancer remains one of the most lethal gynecologic malignancies, with limited responsiveness to standard chemotherapy and poor long-term prognosis. Tumor-associated macrophages, particularly M2-polarized populations, play a crucial role in immune suppression and tumor progression. Human induced pluripotent stem cells (hiPSCs) can differentiate into functional immune cells, providing an unlimited and patient-specific source for cell-based immunotherapy.In this study, we investigated the therapeutic potential of hiPSC-derived macrophages (hiMACs), specifically M1-polarized hiMACs, against ovarian cancer. In a co-culture system, M1-hiMACs significantly reduced the viability of ovarian cancer cells, inducing apoptosis and necrosis, whereas M0 macrophages showed minimal effects. In vivo, intravenous administration of M1-hiMACs into nude mice bearing ovarian cancer cells resulted in a dose-dependent reduction in tumor volume. Furthermore, combination therapy with paclitaxel and M1-hiMACs led to greater tumor regression and enhanced histological necrosis compared to either treatment alone. These findings demonstrate the potent anti-tumor effects of M1-hiMACs and highlight their potential for cellular immunotherapy for ovarian cancer, particularly in combination with chemotherapy.
