Research Article
Hidenori Matsuzaki,Suni Lee,Na
Abstract
Investigation was carried out on the immunological effects of asbestos on individuals and found that asbestos exposure not only reduces the effectiveness of tumor surveillance but also makes asbestos exposed individuals sensitive to tumor development. The continuous experimental exposure of T cells to asbestos has enhanced production of IL-10 and TGF-β. It has also provoked over expression of Bcl-2 with reduced expression of cell-surface CXCR3 and suppressed IFN-γ production with decreased expression of activating receptors such as NKp46 in NK cells. These alterations were also detected in asbestos-exposed patients such as those with pleural plaque or mesothelioma. Such changes in combination with certain markers produced by mesothelioma cells may therefore be considered as an initial screening system for asbestos exposure and developing mesothelioma using peripheral blood.