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1975-1995 revised anti-cancer serological response: biological significance and clinical implications
S Canevari1, S M Pupa, S Ménard
1Division of Experimental Oncology E, Istituto Nazionale Tumori, Milan, Italy.
Abstract:
In the 1970s a considerable amount of work was carried out in an attempt to identify an anti-tumor serological response in cancer patients. These analyses have not been very informative due to the complexity and heterogeneity of the response. More recently, the availability of recombinant molecules, synthetic peptides and analytic and semi-quantitative assays has enabled a better dissection of humoral immunity. Antibodies against intracellular antigens (c-myb, c-myc, p53 and p21 ras) have been found in a significant, albeit varying, proportion of patients bearing various tumors. Association with a poor prognosis is documented for anti-p53 antibodies in breast carcinoma patients. A number of cell surface antigens, including mucins, oncoproteins and carbohydrate antigens have been found to elicit a humoral immune response and, in some instances, circulating immune complexes were observed. A protective role for or, on the other hand, masking effects of such antibodies is still controversial. An indication that a serological response can be beneficial comes from vaccination studies. A significant association between the development of an anti-tumor antigen antibody response and prolonged survival was observed following vaccination of melanoma patients with GM2 or anti-idiotypic antibodies which molecularly mimic tumor-associated antigens. It is to be hoped that in the near future the numerous ongoing immunization trials and prognostic studies demonstrate whether antibody response can exert a protective role in vivo.
Insights
Detecting anti-tumor antibodies in cancer patients offers prognostic insights. While their role is debated, some studies suggest a beneficial serological response, particularly in melanoma patients after vaccination.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Oncology
- Serology
Background:
- Early attempts to identify anti-tumor serological responses were hindered by complexity and heterogeneity.
- Recent advances in assays and reagents allow for better analysis of humoral immunity in cancer patients.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the current understanding of anti-tumor antibody responses in cancer patients.
- To discuss the prognostic significance and potential therapeutic implications of these antibodies.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of antibodies against intracellular antigens (e.g., p53, c-myc) and cell surface antigens (e.g., mucins).
- Review of serological responses in various cancer types, including breast carcinoma and melanoma.
- Examination of vaccination studies involving tumor-associated antigens.
Main Results:
- Antibodies against intracellular antigens like p53 are found in various cancer patients, with anti-p53 antibodies associated with poor prognosis in breast cancer.
- Humoral responses to cell surface antigens have been observed, though their clinical impact remains controversial.
- Vaccination studies in melanoma patients showed a link between anti-tumor antigen antibody response and prolonged survival.
Conclusions:
- The role of anti-tumor antibodies in cancer prognosis and treatment is complex and requires further investigation.
- While controversial, evidence suggests a potential beneficial role for serological responses, particularly in the context of therapeutic vaccination.
- Future immunization trials and prognostic studies are crucial to determine if antibody responses can provide protection in vivo.