Is the leukocyte group-5a antigen associated with reduced NK cell function?

The leukocyte group-5a antigen has an increased frequency in lymphoid malignancy. We have investigated the possibility that expression of this antigen is associated with diminished or reduced natural killer function since natural killer cells are believed to represent a vital component of protection against developing malignancy. Natural killer function of a group of 18 subjects who expressed the group-5a antigen on their cells was substantially lower than that of a group of 24 subjects who did not express 5a.