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Parasites and cancers: parasite antigens as possible targets for cancer immunotherapy

Hossein Yousofi Darani1, Morteza Yousefi

  • 1Department of Parasitology & Mycology, Medicine, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran. yousofidarani@gmail.com

Future Oncology (London, England)
|December 13, 2012
PubMed

Insights

Some parasites show anticancer activity, potentially through shared antigens with cancer cells. This review explores parasite-derived anticancer effects and their mechanisms.

Area of Science:

  • Parasitology
  • Oncology
  • Immunology

Background:

  • Research indicates a link between parasite infections and cancer in humans.
  • Certain parasites exhibit anticancer properties in experimental models.
  • Parasites and cancers share common antigens, particularly mucin-type O-glycans.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review the anticancer activities of various parasites.
  • To discuss the potential mechanisms underlying these anticancer effects.

Main Methods:

  • Literature review of studies on parasite infections and cancer.
  • Analysis of experimental data on parasite-induced anticancer activity.
  • Examination of molecular mechanisms involving shared antigens.

Main Results:

  • Several parasites, including Trypanosoma cruzi and Toxoplasma gondii, demonstrate anticancer effects in animal studies.
  • Parasites synthesize cancer-associated mucin-type O-glycans, suggesting common antigenic targets.
  • Potential mechanisms involve immune modulation and direct antiproliferative effects.

Conclusions:

  • Parasites possess demonstrable anticancer activities.
  • Shared antigens between parasites and cancer represent a promising area for therapeutic development.
  • Further research into parasite-host interactions could yield novel cancer treatments.

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