Search

The activation of host immunological competence through improvement of the intestinal environment by pre and probiotics has been reported. NK cell activity, the bactericidal phagocytic activities of neutrophils in peripheral blood, and bowel movements and short chain fatty acids (SCFAs) in intestinal microbiota increase after the administration of pre- and probiotics. SCFAs shift to acidosis of the intestinal environment and advance apoptosis. Furthermore, SCFAs promote intestinal peristaltic movements through SCFA receptors such as GPT 41 and GPR43, located in the intestinal epithelium. It is known that the acceleration of intestinal apoptosis prevents the onset of colon cancer. Improvement of the intestinal environment leads to an increase in host-cell immunological competence, bowel movements, and the prevention of colon cancer.

Gemcitabine (on days 1, 8, and 15)-cisplatin (on day 15) combinations were used to treat 9 patients with unresectable non-small cell lung cancer to study efficacy and safety. Gemcitabine 1,000 mg/m2 was administered on days 1, 8, and 15 of a 28-day cycle. Cisplatin 60-65 mg/m2 was administered on day 15 of a 28-day cycle. Three cycles were planned per patient. The nine patients received 25 cycles of chemotherapy. Objective response rates was 55% (complete response 11% and partial response 44%). Stable disease was 33%, and progressive disease was 11%. Seven of 9 patients received the planned 3 cycles of therapy. Two patients received only 2 cycles, due to progressive disease (1 patient), and ulcerative colitis (1 patient). Grade 3 leukopenia was 22%, and grade 3 neutropenia was 11%. No grade 4 hematological toxicities were observed. Grade 3 anorexia was 11%, and grade 3 skin rash which occurred in the first cycle 22%. Our data show less toxicity and no significant difference in response rates, so the administration of cisplatin on day 15 seemed to be a useful and safe regimen.