Neuroimmunoregulation and cancer (review).

It is certain that neuroimmune mechanisms play a role in host defence against cancer. However, this interaction is highly complex and many variations are possible according to the nature of the neoplasms involved. There are indications that adaptive immunity is present in a significant proportion of tumor bearing hosts, and this defence may be boosted by specially designed vaccines and cytokines. Natural immune mediators are also implicated in resistance against tumor development. Here we review the evidence suggesting that hormonal manipulation of the host can result in the elevation of immune defences against cancer. Such manipulation strengthens both the adaptive and natural immune defences of the host, both of which play significant roles. Natural defence mechanisms are boosted by cytokines and hormones during febrile reactions which are now known as the acute phase response. It is suggested that hormonal stimulation of immune mechanisms coupled with the usual immunostimulants already in use may be employed to good advantage for the combination immunotherapy of cancer. Modern molecular biology approaches permit the development of laboratory monitoring procedures which may be used for the prediction and follow-up of therapeutic success.