Activities of erythropoietin on tumors: an immunological perspective.
There is a growing interest in the non-erythropoietic, tissue-protective and restorative actions of erythropoietin (EPO). While studies in this field have indicated that EPO can ameliorate chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy and cardiotoxicity, the issue whether EPO can positively or negatively affect cancer patients is a hot one. In this debate, many activities of EPO are being considered, including tissue/neuroprotection, angiogenesis, anti-inflammatory activity, growth promotion, and inhibition of apoptosis. However, few studies have explored the interactions of EPO with the immune system. A study in this issue of the European Journal of Immunology by Katz et al. adds one new piece to the puzzle by showing that EPO can stimulate B cell-mediated immunity.
Ghezzi
Pietro
P
Laboratory of Neuroimmunology, Mario Negri Institute, Milan, Italy. pietro.ghezzi@libero.it
Mengozzi
Manuela
M
D000818:Animals; D000917:Antibody Formation / Q000187:drug effects* / Q000276:immunology; D004921:Erythropoietin / Q000494:pharmacology* / Q000502:physiology / Q000627:therapeutic use; D006801:Humans; D008214:Lymphocytes / Q000166:cytology / Q000187:drug effects / Q000276:immunology; D051379:Mice; D009101:Multiple Myeloma / Q000188:drug therapy / Q000276:immunology; D009369:Neoplasms / Q000188:drug therapy* / Q000276:immunology
D004921:Erythropoietin