Lectin (WGA)-dependent superoxide anion release by neutrophils as a prognostic factor in lung cancer

This study was performed to explore whether lectin-induced generation of superoxide anions by neutrophils, lectin-induced degranulation of these cells and NO-synthase activity in pleural effusions can be used as prognostic factors of primary lung cancer patients. Among the activities tested, increased generation of superoxide by Triticum vulgaris agglutinin (WGA)-activated neutrophils showed prognostic relevance. Thus, this lectin-dependent reactivity of immune cells warrants further investigation in addition to the histochemical analysis.