Inflammation: A Key Component of the Immunosuppression Observed in Aggressive Breast Cancer?

Authors

Bryan Swanson, Brigham Young University
Dr. Kim O'Neill, Brigham Young University

Keywords

inflammation, immunosuppression, breast cancer

College

Life Sciences

Department

Microbiology and Molecular Biology

Abstract

Chemotherapy, surgery, and radiation are current treatments used to combat cancer. Future treatments may directly involve the cancer patient’s immune system. The immune system has the potential to destroy tumors. This destructive potential is orchestrated by small secreted proteins called cytokines and chemokines. These proteins control communications between immune cells, endothelial cells, and other cell types found within the body. In addition, cytokines and chemokines have growth, differentiation, and activation effects on target cells. Increasing evidence suggests the effects of these proteins may lead to tumor growth, tumor progression, and host immunosuppression in cancer patients.

Recommended Citation

Swanson, Bryan and O'Neill, Dr. Kim (2013) "Inflammation: A Key Component of the Immunosuppression Observed in Aggressive Breast Cancer?," Journal of Undergraduate Research: Vol. 2013: Iss. 1, Article 1289.
Available at: https://scholarsarchive.byu.edu/jur/vol2013/iss1/1289