Jurkat-T-cells were transfected with the FLICE-inhibitory protein FLIP in order to bestow them with a resistance to FAS-receptor-mediated apoptosis. FLIP-transfected and non-transfected Jurkat-T-cells were grown in coincubation with SW620 cells and the rates of apoptosis measured
First, the tumor-counterattack described in the literature was confirmed. About 20%of Jurkat-T-Cells underwent apoptosis in coculture with SW620 cells. After coincubation of SW620 cells with FLIP transfected Jurkat-T-cells the apoptotic rate was significant reduced at levels below 4%.
Transfection of Jurkat-T-cells with FLIP reduces the sensitivity of Jurkat-T-cells to FAS-mediated apoptosis and may lead to an improved capability to antagonize the inherent tumor survival strategy of SW620 cells.