The frequency of T regulatory cells is increased in peripheral blood of patients with colon-rectal cancer

Abstract

Immune system can recognise the tumor-associated antigens present in peripheal blood of cancer patients. Recent studies suggest that CD4⁺CD25⁺ regulatory T cells (Treg) might hamper effective immune-surveillance of cancer cells and impede effective immune responses to established tumours. The aim of this study is to demonstrate the presence of Treg in the peripheral blood of colon-rectal cancer (CRC) patients. Results indicate an increase frequency of Treg in the peripheral blood of CRC patients. In addition, Treg is able to regulate the in vitro proliferative response to CEA. Thus, these cells could regulate the immunosuppression and, eventually, the neoplastic progression in CRC patients.