Second generation GcMAF (macrophage activation therapy)
What is second-generation GcMAF (macrophage activation therapy)?
This treatment aims to activate the body's immune system by using GcMAF to activate dormant macrophages (a type of immune cell), thereby preventing or slowing the growth of cancer.
What are Macrophages?
Macrophages are differentiated cells that are derived from monocytes present in the blood that have infiltrated tissues. In addition to consuming and eliminating foreign substances, they also have the ability to present antigens to T cells, just like dendritic cells. Like dendritic cells, macrophages are the cells that initiate activation of the immune system, so if these cells are not functioning properly, the immune system may not function properly and foreign substances may not be eliminated.
What is GcMAF?
Gc MAF is an abbreviation for Gc-derived Macrophage Activating Factor, a substance obtained by enzymatically treating Gc globulin (also known as vitamin D binding protein), a glycoprotein present in serum. It has been reported to activate macrophages and inhibit angiogenesis.
In cancer-bearing patients, the immune system does not function properly due to the effects of immunosuppressive substances produced by cancer cells. Gc MAF improves this immunosuppressive state and induces the patient's natural immune response, which is expected to have a therapeutic effect against cancer.
Treatment overview
This treatment is an elective medical treatment.
Flow of second-generation GcMAF (macrophage activation therapy)
Step 1: Interview, medical examination
Step 2: Blood collection for infectious disease testing (approximately 10 mL)
Step 3: Blood collection for Gc MAF production (approximately 100-250mL)
Step 4: Gc MAF is manufactured by an external supplier (approximately 1 week)
Step 5: Inject into the muscle or subcutaneously (1-3 times per week*)
*The administration interval varies depending on the patient's condition.
Treatment period and number of times
The treatment will vary depending on the patient's condition and symptoms, so we will make a decision after the patient has undergone an examination and tests.
Cost (free medical treatment)
24 sessions: 1,870,000 yen to 3,740,000 yen
48 sessions: 2,530,000 yen to 5,060,000 yen
Risks and side effects
It is believed to have few side effects.
Although very rare, allergic reactions or fever caused by an immune response may occur.
Regarding elective medical treatment using unapproved drugs, etc.
● Clear indication that the drug is an unapproved drug, etc., and clear indication of the acquisition route, etc.
The macrophage activating factor used in this treatment has not been approved under the Pharmaceutical and Medical Device Act. In Japan, unapproved drugs can be used at the physician's own risk.
● Availability of domestically approved drugs, etc.
There are no other domestically approved drugs that have the same properties as those used in this treatment.