Annexin II Dependent Mechanism of Breast Cancer Progression
Abstract
It has been recognized for decades that growth and development of breast cancer is dependent on angiogenesis (1). Weidener et al reported that microvessel density (either count or grade serves as a measure of tumor angiogenesis) in invasive breast carcinoma is associated with metastasis and, thus, may be a prognostic indicator (2,3). Increase in tumor microvasculature not only allows for rapid growth of tumors but may also provide the means for tumor cells to enter and exit the circulation during hematogenous tumor spread. In addition, endothelial cells (EC) may play a significant role in tumor progression by providing invading tumor cells with essential molecules necessary for extracellular matrix (ECM) degradation such as proteolytic enzymes [4]. Therefore, tumor angiogenesis plays an active and critical role in tumor progression and metastasis. Regulation of angiogenesis is a fundamental mechanism to control of tumor progression [1]. Using this novel approach, Folkman and colleagues identified angiostatin (AS), an internal fragment of plasminogen (PLG) spanning kringle 1-4 region, as one of the most powerful angiogenesis inhibitors [5]. These investigators further demonstrated 95% regression of human breast cancer by AS treatment in xenograft mice model without toxicity [6]. Later other investigators also demonstrated impressive anti-human breast cancer activity by AS gene therapy [7].
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jun 01, 2009
- Accession Number
- ADA511266
Entities
People
- Mahesh C. Sharma
Organizations
- Drexel University College of Medicine