immune surveillance hypothesis
Quick Summary
The immune surveillance hypothesis proposes that the immune system constantly monitors the body for abnormal cells, including emerging cancer cells. These cells are identified by unique antigens on their surface, which the immune system recognizes as foreign and targets for destruction. This process helps prevent the formation of tumors by eliminating preneoplastic cells and fighting infections by viruses that can cause cancer.12
Evidence supporting this theory comes from individuals with weakened immune systems, such as those with immune deficiencies or who have undergone organ transplants. These individuals have a higher risk of developing certain cancers, particularly lymphomas. While the immune system can detect and destroy many abnormal cells, some tumors develop mechanisms to evade immune surveillance, allowing them to grow and spread. Research in tumor immunology continues to explore these mechanisms and develop immunotherapies to enhance the body's ability to fight cancer.123
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cancerImmune surveillance…small tumors is known as immune surveillance.
Read More…small tumors is known as immune surveillance.
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immune systemImmunity against cancer…a number of immunologists postulated immune surveillance, the theory that T-cell-mediated immunity evolved as a specific defense against cancer cells and that T cells constantly patrol the body, searching for abnormal body cells that carry antigens on their surface which are not found on healthy body cells. Although it has…
Read More…a number of immunologists postulated immune surveillance, the theory that T-cell-mediated immunity evolved as a specific defense against cancer cells and that T cells constantly patrol the body, searching for abnormal body cells that carry antigens on their surface which are not found on healthy body cells. Although it has…
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