Cancer therapy using beta glucan and antibodies

Abstract

The present invention relates to methods of using neutral soluble glucan and monoclonal antibodies for antitumor therapy. Neutral soluble Beta (1,3; 1,6) glucan (NSG) enhances the tumoricidal activity of the innate immune system by binding to the C3 complement protein receptor CR3. The glucan does not stimulate the induction of inflammatory cytokines. Also described are methods of using whole glucan particles (WGP) as an immunomodulator by inducing a shift from a Th2 response to the Th1 response, leading to an enhanced antitumor cytotoxic T-cell response.

1 . (canceled) 
     
     
         2 . A method of suppressing or eliminating tumor cells, comprising administering a yeast neutral soluble glucan and a complement activating anti-tumor antibody to a subject having said tumor cells, wherein said glucan does not induce systemic release of inflammatory cytokines, and said glucan and said antibody together synergistically suppress or eliminate said tumor cells. 
     
     
         3 . The method of  claim 2 , wherein said yeast neutral soluble beta glucan is administered parenterally. 
     
     
         4 . The method of  claim 2 , wherein said yeast neutral soluble glucan is in a single helix conformation, a triple helix conformation, or a combination thereof.