Alcohol exposure differentially effects anti-tumor immunity in females by altering dendritic cell function

Dendritic cells (DCs) are a critical component of anti-tumor immunity due to their ability to induce a robust immune response to antigen (Ag). Alcohol was previously shown to reduce DC ability to present foreign Ag and promote pro-inflammatory responses in situations of infection and trauma. However the impact of alcohol exposure on generation of an anti-tumor response, especially in the context of generation of an immune vaccine has not been examined. In the clinic, DC vaccines are typically generated from autologous blood, therefore prior exposure to substances such as alcohol may be a critical factor to consider regarding the effectiveness in generating an immune response.

Source: Alcohol - October 17, 2016 Category: Addiction Authors: Matthew G. Thompson, Flor Navarro, Lennox Chitsike, Luis Ramirez, Elizabeth J. Kovacs, Stephanie K. Watkins Source Type: research