Soluble Fas ligand released by colon adenocarcinoma cells induces host lymphocyte apoptosis: an active mode of immune evasion in colon cancer
2001
Colon Cancer Cells Release Soluble Fas Ligand to Evade Immune Response
Sample size: 12
publication
Evidence: moderate
Author Information
Author(s): Song E, Chen J, Ouyang N, Su F, Wang M, Heemann U
Primary Institution: Department of Medicine, University Hospital Essen
Hypothesis
Colon adenocarcinoma cells release soluble Fas ligand (sFasL) to induce apoptosis in host lymphocytes without direct contact.
Conclusion
Colon cancer cells can release a substance that causes immune cells to die, helping the cancer evade the immune system.
Supporting Evidence
- Membrane-bound Fas ligand was identified in the tumors of colon cancer patients.
- Serum levels of sFasL were significantly elevated in patients with mFasL expression.
- The number of apoptotic lymphocytes was significantly increased in tumor and peripheral blood.
Takeaway
Some colon cancer cells can make a special substance that tricks the body's defense cells into dying, which helps the cancer grow.
Methodology
The study measured soluble Fas ligand in the sera of colon cancer patients and analyzed its effect on lymphocyte apoptosis.
Participant Demographics
12 consecutive patients with colon adenocarcinoma.
Statistical Information
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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