MGN-3 arabinoxylan rice bran modulates innate immunity in multiple myeloma patients

Dendritic cells (DCs) and natural killer (NK) cells are central components of innate immunity for controlling tumor growth. The therapeutic effects of certain anti-myeloma drugs are partially mediated by targeting the innate immune response. In addition, novel types of natural compounds have been developed that efficiently modulate the activity of both the cellular and humoral compartments of immunity. MGN-3 is known as an activator of natural killer cells, inducer of apoptosis and cytokine production, and modulator of dendritic cell maturation and differentiation in vitro. We have performed a randomized, placebo-controlled study to examine the effects of MGN-3 on innate immune system parameters in 48 multiple myeloma patients. We performed immunophenotypic analysis of peripheral blood samples, determined NK cell activity, and assessed the cytokine profiles of plasma before and during 3 months of treatment. The results demonstrate a clear increase in NK activity in MGN-3-treated patients compared to the placebo group, an increased level of myeloid DCs in peripheral blood, and augmented concentrations of T helper cell type 1-related cytokines. The present study suggests that MGN-3 may represent an immunologically relevant product for activating innate immunity in multiple myeloma patients and warrants further testing to demonstrate clinical efficacy.