Erythropoietin in cancer: a dilemma in risk therapy.

Abstract

Erythropoietin (EPO) is a frequently prescribed drug for treatment of cancer-related and chemotherapy-induced anemia in cancer patients. Paradoxically, recent preclinical and clinical studies indicate that EPO could potentially accelerate tumor growth and jeopardize survival in cancer patients. In this review I critically discuss the current knowledge and broad biological functions of EPO in association with tumor growth, invasion, and angiogenesis. The emphasis is focused on discussing the complex interplay between EPO and other tumor-derived factors in angiogenesis, tumor growth, invasion, and metastasis. Understanding the multifarious functions of EPO and its reciprocal relation with other signaling pathways is crucial for developing more effective agents for cancer therapy and for minimizing risks for cancer patients.

• Authors: Yihai Cao
• Journal: Trends in endocrinology and metabolism: TEM (Trends Endocrinol Metab) Vol. 24 Issue 4 Pg. 190-9 (Apr 2013) ISSN: 1879-3061 [Electronic] United States
• PMID: 23218687 (Publication Type: Journal Article, Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't, Review)
• Copyright: Copyright © 2012 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Chemical References

• Erythropoietin

Topics

• Anemia (drug therapy)
• Animals
• Erythropoietin (adverse effects, therapeutic use)
• Humans
• Neoplasms (etiology, metabolism)