High-dose inhibition and low-dose enhancement of murine sarcoma growth exhibited by BCG vaccine.
An in vivo assay for BCG anti-cancer efficacy was developed, utilizing subcutaneous injection into CFW Swiss-Webster mice of cultured S180 sarcoma cells and mixed with freeze-dried TiceTM BCG vaccine. A BCG dose of 0.156-1.56 mg dry weight significantly inhibited tumor formation, but a BCG dose of 0.156-1.56 micrograms significantly enhanced tumor growth, evidenced by increased tumor incidence, volume and initial growth rate. These antagonistic activities may contribute to the high variability of BCG anti-cancer efficacy seen in animals and humans and indicate the need to exercise caution when employing even low doses of BCG for cancer immunotherapy.
Klegerman
M E
ME
Department of Pharmaceutics, College of Pharmacy, University of Illinois, Chicago, IL 60607.
Ujjainwala
L
L
Zeunert
P
P
D000818:Animals; D001500:BCG Vaccine / Q000008:administration & dosage / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D002455:Cell Division / Q000187:drug effects; D002470:Cell Survival / Q000187:drug effects; D004305:Dose-Response Relationship, Drug; D051379:Mice; D008807:Mice, Inbred BALB C; D008815:Mice, Inbred Strains; D012510:Sarcoma 180 / Q000473:pathology / Q000628:therapy*
D001500:BCG Vaccine