Abstract: The present invention creates an immunologically protected/enhanced space in vivo in a mammal by removing the impact of soluble inhibitors of the mammal's immune system in a defined space within the body. Placing an antigen source within the defined protected space along with a monocyte-containing blood sample from the mammal being treated and a dendritic cell-inducing factor allows a dendritic-antigen presentation process to proceed to completion. The protected/enhanced space is created by surrounding the protected space with ligands which absorb and/or bind to one or more soluble inhibitors. The implant can be loaded with a patient's cancer cells to treat cancer.

Abstract: The present invention creates an immunologically protected/enhanced space in viva in a mammal by removing the impact of soluble inhibitors of the mammal's immune system in a defined space within the body. Placing an antigen source within the defined protected space along with a monocyte-containing blood sample from the mammal being treated and a dendritic cell-inducing factor allows a dendritic-antigen presentation process to proceed to completion. The protected/enhanced space is created by surrounding the protected space with ligands which absorb and/or bind to one or more soluble inhibitors. The implant can be loaded with a patient's cancer cells to treat cancer.

Abstract: The activation of macrophages and methods for treating cancer, bacterial pathogens and viral pathogens are disclosed. In particular, Gc protein is converted to Gc-macrophage activating factor (GcMAF), in vivo or ex vivo. The GcMAF activates macrophages which can then target cancer cells, bacterial pathogens and/or viral pathogens. Alternatively, macrophages are activated by contacting them, in vivo or ex vivo, with GcMAF. Optionally, nagalase is inactivated in a patient receiving the present macrophage activating treatment by contacting the patient's blood with a Nagalase-binding ligand immobilized on an inert medium.

Abstract: The present invention creates an immunologically protected/enhanced space in viva in a mammal by removing the impact of soluble inhibitors of the mammal's immune system in a defined space within the body. Placing an antigen source within the defined protected space along with a monocyte-containing blood sample from the mammal being treated and a dendritic cell-inducing factor allows a dendritic-antigen presentation process to proceed to completion. The protected/enhanced space is created by surrounding the protected space with ligands which absorb and/or bind to one or more soluble inhibitors. The implant can be loaded with a patient's cancer cells to treat cancer.