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Leuprolide vs. diethylstilboestrol: effect on natural killer cells
R J Ablin1, M J Gonder, J M Bartkus
1Department of Urology, State University of New York, Stony Brook 11794.
Anticancer Research
|January 1, 1988
Summary
Diethylstilbestrol (DES) and estrogen therapy for prostate cancer may increase cardiovascular risks and suppress immune function. This compromises treatment efficacy and the body's ability to fight infections or tumors.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Immunology
- Cardiovascular Medicine
Background:
- Estrogen therapy is used for prostate cancer treatment.
- Concerns exist regarding cardiovascular risks associated with estrogen therapy.
- Hormone-insensitive prostate cancer relapse is a clinical challenge.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the impact of diethylstilbestrol (DES) on natural killer (NK) cell activity.
- To compare the immunosuppressive effects of DES with luteinizing-hormone-releasing-hormone (LHRH) analog leuprolide (Lupron).
- To assess potential compromises in immunosurveillance and infection defense due to estrogen therapy.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of NK cell lytic activity.
- Comparison of effects between DES and leuprolide.
- Statistical analysis of observed effects (p < 0.001 for DES).
Main Results:
- DES significantly reduced NK cell lytic activity (p < 0.001).
- Leuprolide had a negligible effect on NK cell lytic activity.
- Evidence suggests DES induces immunosuppression.
Conclusions:
- Estrogen therapy, including DES, may compromise immunosurveillance against tumors.
- Reduced immune function from estrogen therapy could impair the body's ability to combat infections.
- The immunosuppressive effects of estrogen therapy may reduce its palliative benefits in prostate cancer treatment.