Chapter 17: Tumor Immunology Flashcards
Tumor (neoplasm)
an abnormal cell mass
Cancer
malignant tumor that can spread
What can cause a neoplasm/Cancer?
○ Caused by mutations in proto-oncogenes and tumor-suppressor genes
○ Uncontrolled cell division and other characteristics
Tumor-Specific Antigens (TSAs)
○ Unique to the tumor
○ Coded by mutated proto-oncogenes or tumor suppressor genes
Tumor-Associated Antigens (TAAs)
○ Expressed in tumor cells and normal cells
○ Shared tumor-specific antigens
Clinically Relevant Tumor Markers
○ Biologic substances found in increased amounts in blood, body fluids, or tissues of patients with a specific type of cancer
○ Concentration in serum depends on amount of tumor proliferation and tumor size
○ Elevated level indicates significant tumor mass
Clinical Uses of Tumor Markers
○ Population screening- identify cancer in asymptomatic people
○ Diagnosis- Identifies cancer in a particular patient
○ Patient prognosis- Predicts clinical outcome and aids in selection of therapy
Laboratory Tests for Tumors
○ Immunohistochemistry- Uses labeled antibodies to detect tumor antigens in tissue biopsies
○ Immunoassays- Measure levels of circulating tumor markers
○ Molecular methods- Detect genetic mutations associated with cancer
○ Proteomics- Detects protein profile of a tumor population
Immune Defenses Against Tumor Cells
○ Immunosurveillance- Immune system patrols the body for cancer cells and destroys them
○ Innate defenses- NK cells, macrophages
○ Adaptive immune responses- CTLs, dendritic cells, cytokines, antibodies
Immunotherapy
○ AKA biologic response modifier therapy
○ Uses ability of the immune system to destroy tumor cells
Active immunotherapy
○ Stimulates patient’s immune system to respond to tumor antigens
○ Nonspecific stimulation
Passive Immunotherapy
○ Administration of soluble components of the immune system
○ Cytokines to nonspecifically boost the immune response and increase white blood cell production
Adoptive Immunotherapy
Transfer of cells of immune system
