Thymosin alpha1 inhibits mammary carcinogenesis in Fisher rats.

Peptides2002PMID: 12084534

Plain Language Summary

Daily injections of thymosin alpha-1 in rats reduced the incidence of chemically-induced breast cancer and extended survival time compared to untreated animals. The treated rats also had significantly higher white blood cell counts, suggesting the anti-cancer effect was mediated through immune system stimulation. These findings provide evidence that thymosin alpha-1 can help prevent cancer development by enhancing the body's natural immune defenses.

Abstract

The effects of thymosin alpha1 (Talpha1) on mammary carcinogenesis was investigated in Fisher rats. Mammary carcinomas were observed 3 months after N-nitrosomethylurea (NMU) injection (10mg, i.p.) into Fisher rats. Daily administration of Talpha1 (10 microg, s.c.) reduced mammary carcinoma incidence and prolonged survival time. Animals treated with exogenous Talpha1 had a significantly greater blood white cell density than control Fisher rats. These results suggest that Talpha1 prevents mammary carcinoma incidence as a result of stimulation of the immune system.

Authors

Moody, Terry W; Tuthill, Cynthia; Badamchian, Mahnaz; Goldstein, Allan L