Role of activated host T cells in the promotion of MALT lymphoma growth.
Gastric mucosa-associated lymphoid tissue (MALT) B cell lymphomas contain activated helper T cells. The evidence supports the presence of mechanisms of T cell dependence underlying the development of these lymphomas. It appears that the T cells, which activate B cells, may contribute to lymphoma pathogenesis. Co-stimulatory molecules necessary for effective B cell/T cell interaction are expressed in MALT lymphomas. The studies suggest that CD40 signaling, in combination with cytokines, is essential for the development and progression of MALT lymphomas. Activated T cells of low grade gastric MALT lymphoma, while delivering full help to B cells, are apparently deficient in two cytotoxic mechanisms involved in the concomitant control of B cell growth.
Guindi
M
M
Department of Laboratory Medicine, Ottawa Hospital, Ontario, Canada. mmguindi@civich.ottawa.on.ca
D003602:Cytotoxicity, Immunologic; D006801:Humans; D008213:Lymphocyte Activation; D016246:Lymphocytes, Tumor-Infiltrating / Q000276:immunology; D018442:Lymphoma, B-Cell, Marginal Zone / Q000209:etiology / Q000276:immunology* / Q000473:pathology; D013601:T-Lymphocytes / Q000276:immunology*