Procathepsin D and cancer: From molecular biology to clinical applications.

Abstract

Procathepsin D (pCD) is overexpressed and secreted by cells of various tumor types including breast and lung carcinomas. pCD affects multiple features of tumor cells including proliferation, invasion, metastases and apoptosis. Several laboratories have previously shown that the mitogenic effect of pCD on cancer cells is mediated via its propeptide part (APpCD). However, the exact mechanism of how pCD affects cancer cells has not been identified. Recent observations have also revealed the possible use of pCD/APpcD as a marker of cancer progression. The purpose of this review is to summarize the three major potentials of pCD-tumor marker, potential drug, and screening agent.

• Authors: Vaclav Vetvicka, Aruna Vashishta, Sujata Saraswat-Ohri, Jana Vetvickova
• Journal: World journal of clinical oncology (World J Clin Oncol) Vol. 1 Issue 1 Pg. 35-40 (Nov 10 2010) ISSN: 2218-4333 [Electronic] United States
• PMID: 21603309 (Publication Type: Journal Article)