Natural Killer cells, abbreviated as NK cells, are a species of white blood cell in the body’s immune system. They play an important role in destroying cancer cells and suppressing tumour metastasis. Hence, medical research has shown that a decrease in NK Cell Count or their ability to suppress tumour growth (NK Activity) is correlated with a number of different cancers:
Cancers displaying evidence of abnormal NK Cell Activity (T. Sutlu& E. Alici, 2009)
- Non-small cell lung cancer
- Hepatocellular carcinoma
- Stage IV rectal cancer
- Head and neck cancer
- Breast cancer
- Cervical carcinoma
- Squamous cell carcinoma of the penis
- Ovarian cancer
- Lymphoma
Modern techniques have allowed medical professionals to accurately measure NK Cell count and activity to determine each individual’s natural immune response against cancer cells. This is especially useful for patients who:
- Follow lifestyles that increase risk of cancer e.g. drinking, smoking, stress, lack of rest, overweight, family history of cancer.
- Have been diagnosed with types of cancer mentioned above
Interpreting the results of NK Cell count and Activity.
- Below average level: The body’s natural immune response may be compromised. This could be due to various factors such as:
- Cancer or individuals with a family history of cancer
- Unhealthy lifestyles such as heavy smoking, inadequate sleep (under 7 hours per day), high stress, overweight and obesity.
- Eating disorders e.g. unbalanced diet lacking fruits and vegetables or soy protein
- Drugs/treatments such as immunosuppressants or chemotherapy
- Patients undergoing surgery
- Certain diseases g. Perforin deficiency, NEMO mutation
- Normal level: Cells of the immune response are working properly.
- Above average level: High activity of immune This shows that the immune system is working effectively, but on the other hand could also
indicate the presence of infection or increased risk of age-related diseases such as Alzheimer’s.