Immunological enhancement by fat-soluble vitamins, minerals, and trace metals: a factor in cancer prevention.

R. R. Watson

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

16 Scopus citations

Abstract

High intakes of some fat-soluble vitamin or trace metals have been associated with a decreased risk of cancer. A mechanism to help explain their anticancer action might be immunosuppression during deficiency or immuno-enhancement with high intakes. In vitro, retinol suppressed T-lymphocyte functions, whereas high dietary vitamin A enhanced macrophage functions. High intakes of vitamin E can enhance some anticancer, immune defenses. Selenium excess was not very suppressive of immune functions in vitro, but did retard tumor cell growth. Selenium and zinc deficiencies are associated with immunosuppression. Enhanced immune functions by high intakes of trace elements and vitamins provide a mechanism to explain in part the concomitant decreased cancer incidence.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages (from-to)67-77
Number of pages11
JournalCancer detection and prevention
Volume9
Issue number1-2
StatePublished - 1986

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Oncology
  • Cancer Research

Fingerprint

Dive into the research topics of 'Immunological enhancement by fat-soluble vitamins, minerals, and trace metals: a factor in cancer prevention.'. Together they form a unique fingerprint.

Cite this