Hanly AM, Hayanga A, Winter DC, Bouchier-Hayes DJ. Thrombomodulin: tumour biology and prognostic implications.
EUROPEAN JOURNAL OF SURGICAL ONCOLOGY 2005;
31:217-20. [PMID:
15780553 DOI:
10.1016/j.ejso.2004.11.017]
[Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 11/11/2004] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND
Thrombomodulin (TM) is an endothelial receptor that exerts anti-coagulant, anti-fibrinolytic, and anti-inflammatory activity by inhibiting thrombin and cellular adhesion. There is growing evidence that TM plays a role in tumour behaviour.
METHODS
The electronic literature (1966-2004) was reviewed with a specific focus on tumour biology.
RESULTS
TM is expressed on both the endothelium and tumour cells in several cancers. Loss of expression denotes a more malignant profile with poorer prognosis. Loss of TM is mediated by hypoxia, endotoxin, and various cytokines, while up-regulation can be achieved by pharmacological manipulation (e.g. pentoxyfylline and statins).
CONCLUSION
Originally described as an endothelial anticoagulant, TM plays a key role in tumour biology and prognostics, and provides a potential therapeutic target in impeding cancer spread.
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