RT Journal Article SR Electronic T1 Activation of Human Monocyte-derived Dendritic Cells In Vitro by Thymax, a Gross Thymic Extract JF Anticancer Research JO Anticancer Res FD International Institute of Anticancer Research SP 4367 OP 4371 VO 29 IS 11 A1 GHONEUM, MAMDOOH A1 SETO, YOSHIKAZU A1 AGRAWAL, SUDHANSHU YR 2009 UL http://ar.iiarjournals.org/content/29/11/4367.abstract AB Background: We have recently demonstrated that Thymax, a gross thymic extract, induces an apoptotic effect against human breast cancer cells. In this study, the ability of Thymax to activate human dendritic cells (DCs) and the DC-directed T-cell response was examined in an in vitro culture model of peripheral blood mononuclear cells. Materials and Methods: The level of costimulatory molecules (CD40, CD80, CD83, CD86) and T-cell proliferation were analyzed by flow cytometry. Cytokine secretion was measured by ELISA. Results: Thymax activated DCs to secrete interleukin (IL)-12p40 and IL-6 cytokines and inhibited IL-10 production. Additionally, Thymax caused the up-regulation of CD80 and CD86 in DCs, leading to an increase in CD4+ T-cells, which subsequently induced secretion of interferon-gamma (IFN-γ). Conclusion: Taken together, the data showed that Thymax activated DCs and, consequently, Th1 cells. Thus, Thymax is an immune-activating compound that needs to be evaluated extensively for its possible therapeutic properties.