Hamilton Js

Human squamous cell carcinoma of the tongue exhibits phagocytosis against baker’s yeast

Abstract Problem: To investigate the kinetics of phagocytosis of squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) of the tongue against nonpathogenic yeast, S. cerevisiae , in vitro. Cancer cells were examined for phagocytic activity against heat-killed yeast at different intervals in vitro. Methods: Cancer cells were mixed with yeast at a ratio of 1:10. The percentage of tumor cells that had attached/phagocytosed yeast was determined from counts of 600 tumor cells at 0.5-, 2-, and 4-hour incubation periods. Oxidative burst was determined by using oxidative sensitive dye (DCFH-DA) and flow cytometry. Results: Phagocytosis begins with a high attachment of SCC-4 cells to yeast (56%) at 0.5 hour, which was maintained at 2 and 4 hours. SCC-9 cells demonstrated a lower rate of attachment (33%) at 0.5 hour, which remained low at 2 and 4 hours. Attachment was followed by engulfment of yeast, which was subsequently digested by cancer cells. Phagocytosis by SCC-4 cells was detected (23.7%) at 0.5 hour and increased (52.8%) at 2 hours. SCC-9 cells demonstrated low phagocytic activity (13%) at 0.5 hour, which remained low at 2 and 4 hours. Attachment and phagocytic indexes increased with time of culture of cancer cells with yeast. Phagocytosis was not associated with oxidative burst in SCC-4 cells, suggesting that digestion of yeast occurs independently of oxidative burst. Conclusion: Human squamous cell carcinoma of the tongue possesses phagocytic activity, but in different degrees, which may explain its metastatic property. Significance: This study demonstrates the phagocytic properties of human squamous cell carcinoma of the tongue and elucidates possible mechanisms of local invasion, metastatic potential, and mechanisms by which cancer cells escape immunosurveillance. Support: None reported.

Subcutaneous Carboxytherapy Injection for Aesthetic Improvement of Scars

She was treated with a process called carboxytherapy that resulted in great improvement of the scars with minimal to no discomfort or down time. Carbon Dioxide (CO2) therapy was first introduced in France for cutaneous use.1 CO2 is a non-toxic gas that is naturally produced by cells as they undergo the process of metabolism. As CO2 accumulates in the tissues it induces dilatation of capillaries and results in increased blood flow to facilitate its removal.2 Lately, injection of the CO2 gas has been used to improve stretch marks, skin laxity, cellulite, dark circles under the eyes and scars. It is believed that the mechanism of action for carboxytherapy is two fold. Initially the mechanical injection of the CO2 gas causes destruction of fat cells and interruption of surrounding connective tissue. Secondly, the vasodilatory effects of CO2 gas allows the accumulation of inflammatory response and enhances the process of healing leading to increase collagen deposition and reorganization and eventual improvement in skin texture and tone. (Figures 3&4) Furthermore, the injection of CO2 has been shown to be relatively safe with little to no toxicity.1-5 As such, carboxytherapy can be used as an adjunct to liposuction in order to remove any irregularities. Furthermore, the revascularization and collagen remodeling effects of carboxytherapy lends itself to use for improvement of unsightly scars.1-3,5