Cimetidine and Dendritic Cells in Colorectal Cancer
Author Information
Author(s): Kubota T, Fujiwara H, Ueda Y, Itoh T, Yamashita T, Yoshimura T, Okugawa K, Yamamoto Y, Yano Y, Yamagishi H
Primary Institution: Kyoto Prefectural University of Medicine
Hypothesis
Cimetidine might influence monocyte-derived dendritic cell functions via H2 receptors.
Conclusion
Cimetidine may enhance the antigen presenting capacity of dendritic cells from advanced colorectal cancer patients.
Supporting Evidence
- Cimetidine did not enhance the differentiation of dendritic cells.
- Cimetidine increased the antigen presenting capacity of dendritic cells from cancer patients.
- Patients had received chemotherapy and/or surgery prior to the study.
- IL-12 production was slightly lower in cancer patients compared to normal controls.
Takeaway
Cimetidine, a medicine usually for stomach issues, might help the immune system of cancer patients by making certain immune cells work better.
Methodology
In vitro study on the effects of cimetidine on dendritic cells from colorectal cancer patients and normal controls, using flow cytometry and mixed lymphocyte reactions.
Limitations
The study was conducted in vitro, and clinical significance remains unclear.
Participant Demographics
10 patients with advanced colorectal cancer (4 men, 6 women, aged 28-65) and 10 age-matched healthy volunteers (8 men, 2 women).
Statistical Information
P-Value
0.048
Statistical Significance
p=0.048
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
Want to read the original?
Access the complete publication on the publisher's website