INDUCTION OF AN ACTIVATED MYELOID DENDRITIC CELL PHENOTYPE

摘要

The present invention relates to methods of increasing the antigen presenting ability of monocytes by contacting them with an agent which increases the intracellular calcium level. The agent may consist of a calcium ionophore, a calcium export blocking agent, a calcineurin pathway activating agent etc. Methods of obtaining the monocytes are also disclosed. In addition, the present invention relates to methods of inducing bone marrow progenitor cells and endothelial cells to express molecules involved in generating immune responses. Methods of modulating the expression of molecules involved in generating immune responses are also disclosed, as are methods of treating cancer and leukemia.