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Serum gangliosides as endogenous immunomodulators
1School of Pharmacy, Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Ein Kerem, Israel.
Immunology Today
|October 1, 1995
Summary
Gangliosides can suppress immune responses. Elevated levels in tumors and atherosclerosis suggest gangliosides may play a role in these diseases by interfering with low-density lipoprotein clearance and plaque formation.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Biochemistry
- Pathology
Background:
- Gangliosides are known to suppress immune activities both in vitro and in vivo.
- Increased ganglioside levels are observed in tumors, atherosclerotic aorta tissue, and sera of patients with cancer or atherosclerosis.
Purpose of the Study:
- To propose a hypothesis on the role of gangliosides in atherogenesis and carcinogenesis.
- To explore ganglioside-induced immunomodulation as a potential factor in disease development.
Main Methods:
- Literature review and hypothesis formulation.
- Analysis of existing data on ganglioside levels in disease states.
Main Results:
- Gangliosides' immunomodulatory properties are established.
- Elevated ganglioside concentrations correlate with tumor and atherosclerosis presence.
Conclusions:
- Gangliosides may contribute to atherogenesis by hindering low-density lipoprotein (LDL) clearance.
- Ganglioside-induced immunomodulation is proposed as a mechanism in carcinogenesis and plaque formation.