High Galectin-3 Levels in Ovarian Cancer Affect Immune Response
Author Information
Author(s): Karlsson Veronika, Stål Ebba, Stoopendahl Emma, Ivarsson Anton, Leffler Hakon, Lycke Maria, Sundqvist Martina, Sundfeldt Karin, Christenson Karin, Bernson Elin
Primary Institution: Sahlgrenska Center for Cancer Research, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
Hypothesis
Does Galectin-3 in the tumor microenvironment affect NK cell anti-tumor responses through neutrophil-mediated mechanisms?
Conclusion
High levels of Galectin-3 in the tumor microenvironment of ovarian cancer may decrease NK cell anti-tumor responses via reactive oxygen species released from neutrophils.
Supporting Evidence
- High levels of Galectin-3 were found in ascites and cyst fluid from patients with high-grade serous carcinoma.
- Neutrophils in ascites showed signs of priming and varied in their response to Galectin-3.
- Co-culture assays demonstrated that Galectin-3-induced ROS release from neutrophils decreased NK cell viability.
Takeaway
In ovarian cancer, a substance called Galectin-3 can make certain immune cells less effective at fighting the cancer, which might make the disease worse.
Methodology
The study involved collecting ascites and blood samples from patients with high-grade serous carcinoma, measuring Galectin-3 levels, and conducting co-culture assays with NK cells and neutrophils.
Limitations
The study had a low number of samples in certain experiments, particularly for measuring ROS activity.
Participant Demographics
Patients included were chemo-naïve women diagnosed with high-grade serous carcinoma.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p<0.05
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
Want to read the original?
Access the complete publication on the publisher's website