Circulating and tumor-infiltrating mucosal associated invariant T (MAIT) cells in colorectal cancer patients.

ABSTRACT: Mucosal associated invariant T (MAIT) cells are important for immune defense against infectious pathogens and regulate the pathogenesis of various inflammatory diseases. However, their roles in the development of colorectal cancer (CRC) are still unclear. This study examined the phenotype, distribution, clinical relevance and potential function of MAIT cells in CRC patients. We found that the percentages of circulating memory CD8(+) MAIT cells were significantly reduced while tumor infiltrating MAIT cells were increased, especially in patients with advanced CRC. The serum CEA levels were positively correlated with the percentages of tumor infiltrating MAIT cells in CRC patients, but negatively correlated with the percentages of circulating MAIT in advanced CRC patients. Activated circulati

SUBMITTER: Ling L 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC4738248 | biostudies-literature | 2016 Feb

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature