STIMULATION OF HUMAN NK CELL-ACTIVITY BY CULTURED-CELLS .2. INGESTION OF ASPIRIN BY BLOOD-DONORS SUPPRESSES INDUCED NK ACTIVITY

  • 1 January 1981
    • journal article
    • research article
    • Vol. 44  (3) , 611-614
Abstract
Mononuclear cell incubation with a melanoma tumor cell, M4, induces a rapid increase in NK [natural killer] cell activity in both normal and tumor patient cells. A marked individual variation among the patient population can be attributed to prior aspirin ingestion. Single therapeutic aspirin doses (2 tablets, 600 mg) taken 12 h prior to donation of a blood sample cause an 80-100% reduction in the NK cell activity induced by M4. Since many patients coming to cancer clinics take aspirin regularly, it is essential that they be questioned about their recent usage of this drug if their cells are to be used in assays for NK activity.