Identifying the Most Effective Hydatid Cyst Fluid Fraction for Anticancer Vaccination of 4T1 Breast Tumor‑Bearing Mice

Abstract

Background: The hydatid cyst fluid antigens have high homology with cancer cell antigens and also exhibit considerable immunogenicity. Therefore, their utilization for cancer immunization can cause an effective antitumor immune response. However, the main challenge is identifying the most effective
antigens for this purpose.

Methods: Hydatid cyst fluid fractions including the glycolipid fraction,
glycoprotein fraction, 78 kDa fraction, and antigen B fraction were prepared. Then, the BALB/c mice were immunized against different antigens and, subsequently, 4T1 cells were subcutaneously implanted. The tumors’ growth, metastasis, and tumor‑bearing mice survival were assessed in different
immunized groups. In addition, IL‑2, IL‑4, IFN‑γ, and TNF‑α serum levels were estimated to evaluate the immune system response.

Results: BALB/c mice immunization against the complete hydatid cyst
fluid antigens exhibited more significant inhibition of the tumors’ growth and metastasis and increase of tumor‑bearing mice survival in comparison with its derived fractions. However, the 78 kDa fraction exhibited the best results according to the same factors in comparison with all the prepared fractions.

Conclusions: The 78 kDa fraction of the hydatid cyst fluid was the most effective fraction of hydatid cyst fluid for immunization against 4T1 breast tumors.

Keywords: Breast neoplasm, cyst fluid, immunization, immunotherapy, neoplasm metastasis