The Non-Classical Secretion of Thioredoxin from Breast Cancer Cells
Abstract
Thioredoxin is a small protein with a catalytic site for redox reactions that is involved in several physiologic and pathophysiologic processes in humans. A ubiquitous cytosolic protein, thioredoxin also is secreted by some types of cells including cells derived from leukemia, lung, colon, and breast cancers. Extracellular thioredoxin acts as an autocrine growth factor and can potentiate the action of other cytokines on these tumor cell lines. The novel pathway by which thioredoxin is secreted has not been elucidated. Our specific aims are to: identify the amino acid sequence within thioredoxin that directs its secretion from cells, and to identify the cellular gene products that secrete thioredoxin from breast cancer cells. We aim to develop a molecular view of the non-classical process by which thioredoxin is secreted. Armed with a thorough understanding of this export process, it may be possible to slow the growth of breast cancers in humans in an entirely new way by inhibiting the release of thioredoxin.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jun 01, 2003
- Accession Number
- ADA425885
Entities
People
- Steven L. Chuck
Organizations
- Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center