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Modulation of natural killer cell activity in stage I postmenopausal breast cancer patients on low-dose aminoglutethimide

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Summary

Natural killer (NK) cells are important in surveillance against malignant cells. The activity of NK cells can be modulated by naturally occurring mediators; interferon, interleukin-2, and hormones. Low-dose aminoglutethimide (Ag 250 mg/day) inhibits the peripheral aromatization of androstenedione hence decreasing circulating estrogens. Of ten patients treated, seven were evaluable. There was a statistically significant increase in NK activity (P=0.0025) following the administration of Ag. There was no consistent shift in NK cell number (Leu-11b positive cells). In vitro Ag did not alter NK activity whereas 17-β-estradiol did. These data are consistent with an indirect effect of Ag on NK activity. Hence in vivo Ag which causes a reduction in serum estrogens in postmenopausal patients, also induces an increase in NK activity.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Department Medicine, Medical Oncology, Tom Baker Cancer Centre, 1331 - 29th St. N.W., T2N 4N2, Calgary, Alberta

    John Berry

  2. Department Paediatrics, Faculty of Medicine, University of Calgary, T2N 4N1, Calgary, Alberta, Canada

    Bridget J. Green & David S. Matheson

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  1. John Berry
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  2. Bridget J. Green
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  3. David S. Matheson
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Berry, J., Green, B.J. & Matheson, D.S. Modulation of natural killer cell activity in stage I postmenopausal breast cancer patients on low-dose aminoglutethimide. Cancer Immunol Immunother 24, 72–75 (1987). https://doi.org/10.1007/BF00199836

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/BF00199836

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