Bacille‐Calmette Guèrin induces caspase‐independent cell death in urothelial carcinoma cells together with release of the necrosis‐associated chemokine high molecular group box protein 1

Abstract

BCG causes direct cytotoxicity in a subpopulation of UC cells. This cytotoxicity is caspase-independent and associated with ultrastructural changes and cellular protein release (HMGB1), characteristic of necrosis. Urinary levels of HMGB1 can be elevated in patients after BCG treatment. The expression and function of HMGB1 receptors in UC cells, coupled with the known role of HMGB1 on the host immune response, suggest a role for necrosis and HMGB1 release in the antitumour effect of BCG.