The Role of Pentraxin 3 in Gastrointestinal Cancers

Gastrointestinal cancers have become a huge problem worldwide as the number of new cases continues to increase. Due to the growing need to explore new biomarkers and therapeutic targets for the detection and treatment of cancerous lesions, we sought to elucidate the role of Pentraxin-3 in the progression of cancerous lesions, as it is involved in the process of angiogenesis and inflammation. Statistically significant changes in the concentration of this parameter have emerged in many gastrointestinal cancer patients. Moreover, it is related to the advancement of cancer, as well as processes leading to the development of those changes. In the case of studies concerning tissue material, both increased and decreased tissue expression of the tested parameter were observed and were dependent on the type of cancer. In the case of cell lines, both human and animal, a significant increase in Pentraxin 3 gene expression was observed, which confirmed the changes observed at the protein level. In conclusion, it can be assumed that PTX3, both at the level of gene expression and protein concentrations, is highly useful in the detection of gastrointestinal cancers, and its use as a biomarker and/or therapeutic target may be useful in the future.

CXCL5 and CXCL14, but not CXCL16 as potential biomarkers of colorectal cancer

Experts emphasize that colorectal cancer (CRC) incidence and mortality are increasing. That is why its early detection is of the utmost importance. Patients with cancer diagnosed in earlier stages have a better prognosis and a chance for faster implementation of treatment. Consequently, it is vital to search for new parameters that could be useful in its diagnosis. Therefore, we evaluated the usefulness of CXCL5, CXCL14 and CXCL16 in serum of 115 participants (75 CRC patients and 40 healthy volunteers). Concentrations of all parameters were measured using Luminex. CRP (C-reactive protein) levels were determined by immunoturbidimetry, while levels of classical tumor markers were measured using CMIA (Chemiluminescence Microparticle Immunoassay). Concentrations of CXCL5 were statistically higher in the CRC group when compared to healthy controls. The diagnostic sensitivity, specificity, positive and negative predictive value, and area under the ROC curve (AUC) of CXCL5 and CXCL14 were higher than those of CA 19-9. Obtained results suggest the usefulness of CXCL5 and CXCL16 in the determination of distant metastases and differentiation between TNM (Tumor-Node-Metastasis) stages, as well as the usefulness of CXCL14 and CRP combination in CRC detection (primary or recurrence). However, further studies concerning their role in CRC progression are crucial to confirm and explain their diagnostic utility and clinical application as biomarkers.

Potential Utility of Cerebrospinal Fluid Glycoprotein Nonmetastatic Melanoma Protein B as a Neuroinflammatory Diagnostic Biomarker in Mild Cognitive Impairment and Alzheimer's Disease

Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a very common neurodegenerative disorder characterized by the gradual loss of neurons and extracellular amyloid-peptide buildup. There is compelling evidence that the disease process depends on neuroinflammatory alterations, such as the activation of astrocytes and microglia cells. A transmembrane glycoprotein known as glycoprotein nonmetastatic melanoma protein B (GPNMB) plays a neuroprotective role during the development of neurodegeneration. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first investigation discussing the potential clinical usefulness of this protein in the AD continuum, especially in the MCI (mild cognitive impairment) stage. A total of 71 patients with AD or MCI as well as controls were enrolled in this study. The concentrations of GPNMB, YKL-40, Aβ1-42 (amyloid beta 1-42), Tau, and pTau and the Aβ1-42/1-40 ratio in the CSF (cerebrospinal fluid) were tested using immunological methods. The concentrations of both GPNMB and YKL-40 in the cerebrospinal fluid were significantly higher in patients with AD and MCI compared to the controls. Moreover, both proteins were biochemically associated with classical biomarkers of AD and were especially associated with the Aβ1-42/1-40 ratio and Tau and pTau levels in the whole study group. Elevated concentrations of GPNMB were observed in the Aβ(+) group of AD patients compared to the Aβ(-) subjects. Additionally, the diagnostic performance (AUC value) of GPNMB was higher than that of amyloid β1-42 in MCI patients compared with controls. Our study indicates that GPNMB might be a promising neuroinflammatory biomarker for the early diagnosis and prognosis of the AD continuum, with potential utility as a therapeutic target.

The Significance of CXCL1 and CXCR1 as Potential Biomarkers of Colorectal Cancer

The CXCL1/CXCR2 and CXCL8-CXCR1/CXCR2 axes are under intensive investigation as they appear to regulate the progression and invasion of colorectal cancer (CRC). Growing evidence demonstrates the elevated expression of these proteins in CRC. However, a majority of relevant studies have been performed on CRC tissues using immunohistochemical techniques. Our study is the first to evaluate the diagnostic significance of serum CXCL1 and CXCR1 levels in CRC patients in comparison to well-established tumor markers, such as the carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA), and markers of inflammation, such as C-reactive protein (CRP). Thus, the aim of our study was to assess whether circulating serum levels of CXCL1 and CXCR1 might be candidates for novel biomarkers in the diagnosis and progression of CRC. The study was performed on 76 subjects, including patients with CRC and healthy volunteers as a control group. Serum concentrations of CXCL1, CXCR1, and the classical tumor marker (CEA) were measured using immunoenzyme assays, while CRP levels were assessed with the immunoturbidimetric method. Serum CXCL1 levels were statistically significantly increased in CRC patients when compared to healthy subjects, and similar results were found for CEA and CRP levels. The percentage of elevated concentrations of CXCL1 and CXCR1 was higher than that of the classical tumor biomarker and increased in the combined measurement of these proteins with CEA. In addition, among all proteins tested, serum CXCL1 seems to be the best indicator in the differentiation between CRC patients with nodal involvement and patients without the presence of lymph node metastasis. Our preliminary results indicate the role of serum CXCL1 and CXCR1 in the diagnosis of CRC, particularly in the combined measurement with CEA.

A Novel Approach to Staging and Detection of Colorectal Cancer in Early Stages

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is a significant problem affecting patients all over the world. Since it is the fourth most common cause of cancer-related deaths, many scientists aim to expand their knowledge on the detection in early stages and treatment of this disease. Chemokines, as protein parameters involved in many processes accompanying the development of cancer, constitute a group of potential biomarkers that could also be useful in the detection of CRC. For this purpose, our research team used the results of thirteen parameters (nine chemokines, one chemokine receptor and three comparative markers, i.e., CEA, CA19-9 and CRP) to calculate one hundred and fifty indexes. Moreover, for the first time, the relationship between these parameters during the ongoing cancer process and in comparison to a control group are presented. As a result of statistical analyses using patients' clinical data and the obtained indexes, it was established that several of the indexes have a diagnostic utility that is much higher than the tumor marker that is currently the most commonly used (CEA) currently. Furthermore, two of the indexes (CXCL14/CEA and CXCL16/CEA) showed not only extremely high usefulness in the detection of CRC in its early stages, but also the ability to determine whether the stage is low (stage I and II) or high (stage III and IV).

Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor Ligands and Receptors in Breast Cancer

Breast cancer (BC) is the most common malignancy responsible for the largest number of deaths in women worldwide. The risk of developing BC is predisposed by many factors such as age, presence of genetic mutations or body weight. The diagnosis is mostly made relatively late, which is why patients are exposed to radical surgical treatments, long-term chemotherapy and lower survival rates. There are no sufficiently sensitive and specific screening tests; therefore, researchers are still looking for new diagnostic biomarkers that would indicate the appearance of neoplastic changes in the initial stage of neoplasm. The VEGF family of proteins (VEGF-A, VEGF-B, VEGF-C, VEGF-D, EG-VEGF, PlGF) and their receptors are significant factors in the pathogenesis of BC. They play a significant role in the process of angiogenesis and lymphangiogenesis in both physiological and pathological conditions. The usefulness of these proteins as potential diagnostic biomarkers has been initially proven. Moreover, the blockage of VEGF-related pathways seems to be a valid therapeutic target. Recent studies have tried to describe novel strategies, including targeting pericytes, use of miRNAs and extracellular tumor-associated vesicles, immunotherapeutic drugs and nanotechnology. This indicates their possible contribution to the formation of breast cancer and their usefulness as potential biomarkers and therapeutic targets.

Chemokines in Primary Liver Cancer

The liver is responsible for extremely important functions in the human body. In the liver’s structure, we distinguish between connective tissue (stroma) and parenchyma, the latter of which is formed from the basic structural and functional units of the liver—hepatocytes. There are many factors, that negatively affect the liver cells, contributing to their damage. This may lead to fibrosis, liver failure and, in consequence, primary liver cancer, which is the sixth most commonly diagnosed malignancy and the fourth leading cause of cancer death worldwide. Chemokines are a large family of secreted proteins. Their main role is to direct the recruitment and migration of cells to sites of inflammation or injury. Some authors suggest that these proteins might play a potential role in the development of many malignancies, including primary liver cancer. The aim of this study was to evaluate and summarize the knowledge regarding liver diseases, especially primary liver cancer (HCC) and the participation of chemokines in the development of this malignancy. Chemokines involved in the initiation of this type of tumor belong mainly to the CC and CXC chemokines. Their significant role in the course of hepatocellular carcinoma proves their usefulness in detecting and monitoring the course and treatment in patients with this disease.

Eotaxins and Their Receptor as Biomarkers of Colorectal Cancer

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is one of the most common malignancies. Despite the availability of diagnostic tests, an increasing number of new cases is observed. That is why it is very important to search new markers that would show high diagnostic utility. Therefore, we made an attempt to assess the usefulness of eotaxins, as there are few studies that investigate their significance, in patients with CRC. The study included 80 subjects (CRC patients and healthy volunteers). Serum concentrations of all eotaxins were measured using a multiplexing method (Luminex), while CCR3 was measured by immunoenzymatic assay (ELISA). CRP levels were determined by immunoturbidimetry and classical tumor marker levels (CEA and CA 19-9) and were measured using chemiluminescent microparticle immunoassay (CMIA). The highest usefulness among the proteins tested showed CCR3. Its concentrations were significantly higher in the CRC group than in healthy controls. The diagnostic sensitivity, specificity, positive and negative predictive value, and the area under the ROC curve (AUC) of CCR3 were higher than those of CA 19-9. The maximum values for sensitivity, negative predictive value, and AUC were obtained for a combination of CCR3 and CRP. Our findings suggest the potential usefulness of CCR3 in the diagnosis of CRC, especially in combination with CRP or CEA.

C-C motif chemokine ligand 5 and C-C chemokine receptor type 5: possible diagnostic application in breast cancer patients

The chemokine CCL5 and its receptor CCR5 play important roles in cancer invasion and metastasis. Based on our knowledge, our results were the first that presented the diagnostic usefulness of CCL5 and CCR5 in breast cancer (BC) patients, based on receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis. We wished to examine further if CCL5 and CCR5 are appropriate to be applied as BC markers for early screening. Values of tested parameters in patients' plasma were determined by CMIA method (Chemiluminescent Microparticle Immunoassay, CA 15-3) as well as by ELISA method (Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay, CCL5 and CCR5). Levels of CCL5 in the plasma were markedly increased, while those of CCR5 were remarkably lower in BC patients when compared to the control groups. Moreover, higher levels of CCL5 in BC corresponded to advanced tumor stage, while the levels of CCR5 decreased with increasing the disease stage. CCL5 concentration was characterized by high sensitivity (SE) (68.04%) and high specificity (SP) (100.00%) in the BC patients. Results indicated that area under the curve (AUC) corresponding to CCL5 (0.8116) had a higher value than this corresponding to CA 15-3. The AUC value of CCL5 was significantly increased in the early phase of BC (stage I - 0.7089; stage II - 0.8313). The maximum range in the BC patients was observed for the combined analysis of the tested measurands with CA 15-3 (0.8335). In conclusion, our research indicates that examination of plasma CCL5 and CCR5 may be useful in BC diagnosis at the early stage of the disorder, especially when combined with CA 15-3.

Possible Diagnostic Application of CXCL12 and CXCR4 as Tumor Markers in Breast Cancer Patients

BACKGROUND/AIM

Chemokines are cytokines involved not only in inflammatory but also in inappropriate response of the immune system in breast cancer (BC) progression. We examined the diagnostic usefulness of CXCL12, CXCR4 and CA 15-3 in BC patients, based on ROC curve analysis.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The study group consisted of 100 patients with BC; the control group consisted of 35 women with benign breast disease and 35 healthy patients. The median concentration of chemokines was measured by ELISA and that of CA 15-3 by chemiluminescent microparticle immunoassay.

RESULTS

The concentrations of CXCL12 and CXCR4 in the BC group were significantly higher than those in the control groups. The AUC value of CXCL12 (0.7502) was the highest of all the chemokines measured in the BC patients.

CONCLUSION

There may be a link between CXCL12, CXCR4 and BC that can assist in the diagnosis, markedly when combined with CA 15-3.

Eotaxins and Their Receptor in Colorectal Cancer-A Literature Review

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is one of the most common malignancies in the world, with a global incidence of almost 2 million new cases every year. Despite the availability of many diagnostic tests, including laboratory tests and molecular diagnostics, an increasing number of new cases is observed. Thus, it is very important to search new markers that would show high diagnostic sensitivity and specificity in the detection of colorectal cancer in early stages of the disease. Eotaxins are proteins that belong to the cytokine group-small molecules with a variety of applications. Their main role is the activation of basophils and eosinophils involved in inflammatory processes. Therefore, we performed an extensive search of the literature pertaining to our investigation via the MEDLINE/PubMed database. On the basis of available literature, we can assume that eotaxins accumulate in cancer cells in the course of CRC. This leads to a decrease in the chemotaxis of eosinophils, which are effector immune cells with anti-tumor activity. This may explain a decrease in their number as a defense mechanism of cancer cells against their destruction and may be useful when attempting anti-tumor therapy with the use of chemokines.

Can VEGFR-3 be a better tumor marker for breast cancer than CA 15-3?

Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor Receptor 3 (VEGFR-3) is a very important factor which promotes lymphangiogenesis not only in physiological but also in pathological processes in which we can include neoplasia. The aim of this study was to analyze the plasma concentrations and diagnostic utility of this parameter in comparison and in combination with CA 15-3 in breast cancer (BC) patients and in relation to the control groups. The study included 120 breast cancer and 60 control patients (28 with benign breast tumors and 32 healthy women). Plasma levels of VEGFR-3 were determined by an Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay (ELISA), and those of CA 15-3 by a Chemiluminescent Microparticle Immuno Assay (CMIA). Differences in concentrations of both of the tested parameters were statistically significant when breast cancer patients were compared to the control groups. VEGFR-3 had higher values of sensitivity (SE), specificity (SP), predictive value of a positive (PPV) and negative test result (NPV) in the whole BC group (90%; 98.33%; 99.08%; 83.10%, respectively) and, more importantly, in the early stages of BC, than CA 15-3. VEGFR-3 was also a better parameter in terms of statistically significant Area Under Curve (0.9656) in the whole group and at all BC stages (I-IV), but a maximum range was obtained for the combination of VEGFR-3 and CA 15-3 (0.9710). The combined analysis of VEGFR-3 and CA 15-3 provides hope that a new BC diagnostic panel may be developed in the future.

Diagnostic Power of Selected Cytokines, MMPs and TIMPs in Ovarian Cancer Patients - ROC Analysis

BACKGROUND/AIM

The aim of the study was to identify new non-invasive ovarian cancer (OC) tumor markers.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

In postmenopausal ovarian cancer patients and in a control group (benign ovarian lesions and healthy subjects), preoperative plasma levels of cytokines, metalloproteinases and their tissue inhibitors were determined using ELISA while those of CA125 and HE4 by chemiluminescent microparticle immunoassay methods.

RESULTS

The diagnostic sensitivity (SE) value was the highest for HE4 and MMP-7 (78.0%). The diagnostic specificity (SP) for M-CSF, VEGF and MMP-9 was 95.2%, 95.2% and 95.7%, respectively. The highest positive predictive value (PPV) for M-CSF and MMP-9 was ~84.6% and negative predictive value (NPV) for MMP-7 and HE4 was ~87.6%. The biggest areas under the ROC curve were obtained for the combination of VEGF, MMP-7 or MMP-9 with HE4+CA125 (0.9130-0.9234), but not for CA125+HE4 (0.8260).

CONCLUSION

Our research confirms the validity of combining classic markers with new markers to improve the diagnostic power of CA125 and HE4.

Plasma levels of M-CSF and VEGF in laboratory diagnostics and differentiation of selected histological types of cervical cancers

Background

The search of useful serum biomarkers for the early detection of cervical cancers has been of a high priority. The activation of Macrophage-Colony Stimulating Factor (M-CSF) and Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor (VEGF) is likely involved in the pathogenesis and spread of cancer. We compared the plasma levels of M-CSF and VEGF to the ones of commonly accepted tumor markers CA 125and SCC-Ag in three groups of patients: 1. the cervical cancer group (patients with either squamous cell carcinoma or adenocarcinoma); 2. the cervical dysplasia group; 3. the control group.

Methods

This cohort study included 100 patients with cervical cancer and 55 patients with cervical dysplasia. The control group consisted of 50 healthy volunteers. The plasma levels of VEGF and M-CSF were determined using ELISA, while CA 125 and SCC-Ag concentrations were obtained by the chemiluminescent microparticle immunoassay (CMIA).

Results

The median levels of M-CSF and VEGF as well as CA 125 and SCC-Ag in the entire group of cervical cancer patients, were significantly different compared to the healthy women group. In case of both the squamous cell carcinoma and the adenocarcinoma groups, plasma levels of M-CSF and VEGF were higher compared to the control group. No significant differences in the studied parameters between the squamous cell carcinoma and the adenocarcinoma group were observed. The highest sensitivity and specificity were obtained for VEGF (81.18 and 76.00%, respectively) and SCC-Ag (81.18%; 74.00%) in the squamous cell carcinoma group and for VEGF (86.67%; 76.00%) in the adenocarcinoma group. The area under the ROC curve for VEGF was the largest in the adenocarcinoma group followed by the squamous cell carcinoma group (0.9082 and 0.8566 respectively).

Conclusions

Obtained results indicate a possible clinical applicability and a high diagnostic power for the combination of MSC-F, VEGF, CA 125 and SCC-Ag in the diagnosis of both studied types of cervical cancer.

Diagnostic power of VEGF, MMP-9 and TIMP-1 in patients with breast cancer. A multivariate statistical analysis with ROC curve

PURPOSE

Vascular endothelial growth factor is an important factor in promoting angiogenesis in malignant processes, matrix metalloproteinase-9 in the degradation of extracellular matrix, which enhances metastasis, and tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinase-1 is its inhibitor. The aim of this study was to investigate the diagnostic power of these parameters in comparison to CA15-3 in breast cancer patients and in relation to the control group.

MATERIALS/METHODS

The study included 120 breast cancer patients, 60 patients with benign breast tumors and 60 healthy women. Plasma levels of tested parameters were determined by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay, CA15-3 by chemiluminescent microparticle immuno assay.

RESULTS

Tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinase-1 showed the highest value of sensitivity in breast cancer group (86.25%) and, more importantly, highest value in breast cancer stage I (85%). Vascular endothelial growth factor also showed high sensitivity (stage I and II-75%, III-85%, IV-70% and 76.25% in total breast cancer group) and the highest specificity (85%) from all tested parameters. It was also the only parameter which had statistically significant area under curve in all stages. In the total breast cancer group all tested parameters showed statistically significant area under curve, but the maximum range was obtained for combination: 'vascular endothelial growth factor + CA15-3'. Vascular endothelial growth factor seems to be the best candidate for diagnosing breast cancer stage I and for differentiating between breast cancer and non-carcinoma cases.

CONCLUSIONS

The combined analysis of tested parameters and CA15-3 resulted in an increase in sensitivity and area under curve values, which provides hope for developing new panel of biomarkers that may be used in diagnosing breast cancer in the future.

Diagnostic Power of Cytokine M-CSF, Metalloproteinase 2 (MMP-2) and Tissue Inhibitor-2 (TIMP-2) in Cervical Cancer Patients Based on ROC Analysis

Macrophage colony-stimulating factor (M-CSF), matrix metalloproteinase-2 (MMP-2) and its specific tissue inhibitor (TIMP-2) may play an important role in the pathogenesis of cancer disease. We investigated the plasma levels and diagnostic power (ROC curve analysis) of M-CSF, MMP-2, TIMP-2 and tumor markers CA 125 and SCC-Ag in cervical cancer (CC) patients as compared to control group. The study included 89 patients with cervical cancer. The control group consisted of 50 healthy, untreated women. The plasma levels of M-CSF, MMP-2 and TIMP-2 were determined using ELISA, CA 125 and SCC-Ag – by CMIA method. The median levels of M-CSF, TIMP-2, SCC-Ag and CA 125 in the entire group of CC were significantly different than compared to the healthy women group. MMP-2 showed the highest value of sensitivity from all examined parameters (in stage I of CC – 93.10%, II – 82.76%, III and IV – 96.88%, total group – 92.05%). The highest specificity was obtained by M-CSF (86%). The area under the ROC curve (AUC) of M-CSF (0.8051) was the largest of all the tested parameters (even higher than commonly used tumor markers) in the group of cervical cancer. The combination of M-CSF, MMP-2 or TIMP-2 with SCC antigen resulted in an increase AUCs in all cases (0.8760;0.7880;0.8081;respectively). The findings of this study suggest the usefulness of all examined parameters in the diagnostics of CC patients. Out of the tested substances, M-CSF also appears to be the best candidate for cancer diagnostics in all stages of the disease, based on ROC analysis.

Plasma levels of VEGF-A, VEGF B, and VEGFR-1 and applicability of these parameters as tumor markers in diagnosis of breast cancer

The VEGF family members are important factors in promoting angiogenesis and lymphangiogenesis in malignant processes. The aim of this study was to investigate plasma concentrations of VEGF-A, VEGF-B and their soluble VEGFR-1 receptor and their diagnostic utility and potency as compared to CA 15-3 in breast cancer patients and in relation to the control group. The study included 120 breast cancer patients and 60 control patients. Plasma levels of tested parameters were determined with ELISA and CA 15-3 levels were determined with CMIA. Concentrations of all tested parameters in breast cancer patients showed statistically significant difference when compared to the control groups (benign breast tumor patients and/or healthy women). VEGF-B showed the highest values of sensitivity (Sn) and predictive value of a negative test result (NPV) in total BC group (90% and 66.7%, respectively) and, more importantly, in stages I-II of BC (SE: 86.8%; 92.7%, NPV: 82.8%; 88.9%, respectively). Among all parameters tested, VEGF-A showed the highest specificity (Sf) (76.7%) and predictive value of a positive test result (PPV) (84.8%), yet they were lower than for CA 15-3. VEGF-A was also the best parameter that had statistically significant Area Under Curve (AUC) in stages I (0.678) and II (0.768). In the whole group of BC patients all parameters tested showed statistically significant AUC, but the maximum range was obtained for the combination of VEGF-A and CA 15-3 (0.817). The combined analysis of the studied parameters and CA 15-3 resulted in an increase in sensitivity and AUC values, which provides hope for developing a new panel of biomarkers that may be used in BC diagnosis in the future.

Human Plasma Levels of Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor, Matrix Metalloproteinase 9, and Tissue Inhibitor of Matrix Metalloproteinase 1 and Their Applicability as Tumor Markers in Diagnoses of Cervical Cancer Based on ROC Analysis

Cervical cancer (CC) remains a major diagnostic problem. The introduction of human papillomavirus vaccination significantly reduced the number of new cases; however, the search for new methods that would earlier indicate the development of cancerous changes is vital. The aim of this study was to investigate the diagnostic power of those parameters in comparison to Cancer Antigen 125 (CA 125) and Squamous Cell Carcinoma Antigen (SCC-Ag) in patients with CC and in relation to the control group. The study included 100 patients with CC and 50 healthy women. Plasma levels of tested parameters were determined by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay, CA 125, and SCC-Ag by chemiluminescent microparticle immunoassay. Plasma levels of all parameters in the total cancer group showed statistical significance (in all cases P < .05). In stage I cancer, only vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and tissue inhibitors of metalloproteinase 1; in stage II, all the tested parameters and CA 125; and in stage III + IV, VEGF, matrix metalloproteinase 9 (MMP-9), and CA 125 showed statistical significance when compared to the healthy volunteers group. Vascular endothelial growth factor showed the highest value of sensitivity from all tested parameters (I: 75%, II: 76%, III + IV: 94%, and 82% in total CC group). The highest specificity was obtained by MMP-9 (94%). In the total CC, stage I, and stage II groups, all tested parameters showed statistically significant area under the receiver operating characteristics curve (AUC), but maximum range was obtained for the combination VEGF + SCC-Ag (I: 0.9146, II: 0.8941, III + IV: 0.9139, total CC group: 0.9347). The combined analysis of tested parameters and tumor markers resulted in an increase in sensitivity and AUC values, which provides hope for developing new panel of biomarkers that may be used in the diagnosis of CC in the future.

Plasma Levels and Diagnostic Utility of M-CSF, MMP-2 and its Inhibitor TIMP-2 in the Diagnostics of Breast Cancer Patients

BACKGROUND

M-CSF, MMP-2 and its inhibitor TIMP-2 may play a role in the pathogenesis and proliferation of breast cancer (BC). In this paper, plasma levels and the diagnostic utility of these parameters were investigated in comparison to CA 15-3 in patients with BC and in relation to the control groups: patients with benign breast tumor and healthy subjects.

METHODS

Plasma levels of the tested parameters were determined using immunoenzyme assay (ELISA) and CA 15-3 with a chemiluminescence method (CMIA).

RESULTS

Our results demonstrated significant differences in the concentration of the tested parameters and CA 15-3 between BC patients and healthy subjects or benign breast tumor patients. Only the plasma levels of TIMP-2 were significantly higher at all tumor stages (I - IV) when compared to healthy controls. M-CSF and TIMP-2 values were comparable to CA 15-3 values for the diagnostic sensitivity, specificity, the predictive values of positive and negative test results (PPV, NPV) and the area under the ROC curve (AUC) in the total BC group. The combined use of the tested parameters with CA 15-3 resulted in the increase in sensitivity, NPV, and AUC, especially in the combination of M-CSF with comparative tumor marker (78%;65%;0.866, respectively) and TIMP-2 with comparative tumor marker (84%;71%;0.895, respectively).

CONCLUSIONS

These findings suggest the usefulness of the tested parameters in the diagnosis of BC. However, the highest usefulness in the diagnostics of early BC (stage I and II) was found in case of TIMP-2 (particularly for differential diagnosis between BC and benign breast tumor) and M-CSF, especially with CA 15-3, which could be a new diagnostic panel.

Plasma levels and diagnostic utility of macrophage-colony stimulating factor, matrix metalloproteinase-9 and tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinase-1 as tumor markers in cervical cancer patients

Macrophage-colony stimulating factor, matrix metalloproteinase-9, and tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinase-1 may play an important role in malignant processes. The aim of this study was to investigate the diagnostic power of those parameters (serological biomarkers) in comparison to cancer antigen 125 and squamous cell carcinoma antigen in cervical cancer patients and in relation to the control groups. The study included 100 cervical cancer patients, 50 patients with cervical ectropion and 50 healthy women. Plasma levels of tested parameters were determined by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay, cancer antigen 125, and squamous cell carcinoma antigen by chemiluminescent microparticle immunoassay. Plasma levels of all parameters in the total cancer group showed statistical significance (in all cases p < 0.05). In stage I of cancer only medial supraclavicular fossa and tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinase-1, in stage II all the tested parameters and cancer antigen 125, and in stage III + IV macrophage-colony stimulating factor, matrix metalloproteinase-9, and cancer antigen 125 showed statistical significance when compared to the healthy volunteers group. Macrophage-colony stimulating factor showed the highest value of sensitivity from all tested parameters (I: 56.25%, II: 72.73%, III + IV: 77.14% and 69% in total cervical cancer group). The highest specificity was obtained by matrix metalloproteinase-9 (94%). Positive predictive values were highest also for matrix metalloproteinase-9 (I: 82.35%, II: 84.21%, III + IV: 88% and 94.55% in total cervical cancer group), negative predictive values for macrophage-colony stimulating factor (I: 75.44%, II: 82.69%, III + IV: 87.5% and 58.11% in total cervical cancer group) and tumor markers. In the total cervical cancer group, all tested parameters showed statistically significant areas under receiver operating characteristic curve, but maximum range was obtained for the combination macrophage-colony stimulating factor + squamous cell carcinoma antigen (0.8723). The combined analysis of tested parameters and tumor markers resulted in an increase in sensitivity and areas under receiver operating characteristic curve values, which provides hope for developing new panel of biomarkers that may be used in the diagnosis of cervical cancer in the future.

[The plasma levels and diagnostic utility of matrix metalloproteinase-9 and CA 125 in cervical cancer patients]

Matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) are a family of proteolytic enzymes, involved in the degradation of extracellular matrix components. The physiological function of MMP-9 is associated with regulation of immune processes, embryogenesis, reproduction and wound healing. MMP-9 also plays a critical role in tumor invasion, degrading the basement membrane, what is observed in different types of cancers: breast, gastrointestinal, and gynecological.

AIM

The aim of this study was to investigate the plasma levels and diagnostic utility of MMP-9 and CA 125 in cervical cancer patients.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The study included 72 patients with cervical cancer and 24 healthy women. Plasma levels of the MMP- 9 was determined by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) and CA 15-3 - by chemiluminescent microparticle immunoassay (CMIA).

RESULTS

This studies have shown increase levels of MMP-9 and CA 125 in cervical cancer patients compared to health control group. In addition, the MMP-9 concentration increased with the clinical stage of tumor. The sensitivity and specificity of MMP-9, positive and negative predictive value, were higher or equal than CA 125, but this parameter can not be used as a single marker. Our studies of MMP-9 have shown a high utility to the exclusion of cancer, similarly to CA 125. The combined analysis of MMP-9 and CA 125 significantly increased the ability to diagnose a cervical cancer and the possibility exclusion of cancer.

CONCLUSIONS

MMP-9 has shown the usefulness in the diagnosis of cervical cancer, but only in the combined analysis with CA 125, as a new diagnostic panel.

Plasma levels of MMP-7 and TIMP-1 in laboratory diagnostics and differentiation of selected histological types of epithelial ovarian cancers

BACKGROUND

MMP-7 and TIMP-1 may play a role in the pathogenesis of cancer disease. In this study we investigated plasma levels of selected metalloproteinase and its tissue inhibitor in comparison to plasma levels of the commonly accepted tumor markers (CA 125 and HE4) in selected histological types of epithelial ovarian cancer patients as compared to control groups: patients with a benign ovarian tumor and healthy subjects. Plasma levels of MMP-7 and TIMP-1 were determined using ELISA, CA 125 and HE4 - by CMIA methods.

RESULTS

Plasma levels of all biomarkers studied were significantly higher in ovarian cancer patients as compared to both control groups. MMP-7 demonstrated comparable to HE4 or CA125 values of diagnostic sensitivity (SE: 61%; 68%; 58%, respectively), specificity (SP: 95%; 95%; 98%, respectively), positive (PPV: 93%; 96%; 98%, respectively) and negative predictive values (NPV: 61%; 66%; 60%, respectively) in the groups tested. The combined use of the aforementioned biomarkers resulted in a further increase in diagnostic criteria and AUC, especially in the early stages of the disease.

CONCLUSIONS

These findings suggest the usefulness of combining MMP-7 with CA 125 and HE4 in the diagnosis of epithelial ovarian cancer as a new tumor marker panel.

Narrowband ultraviolet B light treatment changes plasma concentrations of MMP-3, MMP-9 and TIMP-3 in psoriatic patients

Background

Matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) and their tissue inhibitors (TIMPs) are thought to be associated with the pathogenesis and spread of psoriatic disease. This study was designed to investigate the plasma levels of MMP-3, MMP-9 and TIMP-3 in plaque psoriasis patients prior to and following a course of ultraviolet B narrowband treatment with respect to disease advancement.

Methods

Plasma samples of 49 patients suffering from plaque psoriasis and 40 healthy volunteers were evaluated. Concentrations of MMP-3, MMP-9 and TIMP-3 were determined using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay, while Psoriasis Area and Severity Index was used to define disease advancement.

Results

Plasma levels of MMP-3, MMP-9 and TIMP-3 were significantly elevated in psoriasis patients compared to healthy individuals. A course of ultraviolet B narrowband treatment resulted in a significant decline in the studied metalloproteinases. Furthermore, the concentration of selected tissue inhibitors was negatively correlated with baseline Psoriasis Area and Severity Index score.

Conclusion

Our research highlights the meaningful role of MMP-3, MMP-9 and TIMP-3 in psoriasis pathogenesis and clearance of disease symptoms. Furthermore, plasma levels of the analyzed metalloproteinases seem to be a valuable psoriasis biomarker.

Plasma levels and diagnostic utility of VEGF, MMP-2 and TIMP-2 in the diagnostics of breast cancer patients

OBJECTIVE

We investigated plasma levels and diagnostic utility of vascular endothelial growth factor VEGF, matrix metalloproteinase-2 (MMP-2) and tissue inhibitors of metalloproteinase-2 (TIMP-2) in comparison to cancer antigen 15-3 (CA 15-3).

METHODS

Plasma levels of tested parameters were determined using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) while CA 15-3 with chemiluminescent microparticle immunoassay (CMIA).

RESULTS

The plasma levels of VEGF, TIMP-2 showed significantly higher than CA 15-3 values of the diagnostic sensitivity, the predictive values of positive and negative test results (PPV, NPV) and the area under the receiver-operating characteristics (ROC) curve (AUC) in early stages of breast cancer (BC). The combined use of the tested parameters with CA 15-3 resulted in the increase in sensitivity, NPV and AUC, especially in the combination with VEGF (83%; 72%; 0.888) and TIMP-2 (83%; 72%; 0.894). The highest values were obtained for combination of all three parameters (93%; 85%; 0.923).

CONCLUSIONS

These findings suggest the usefulness of the tested parameters in the diagnosis of BC, especially VEGF and TIMP-2 with CA 15-3 in early stages of BC, which could be a new diagnostic panel.

Therapy of psoriasis with narrowband ultraviolet-B light influences plasma concentrations of MMP-2 and TIMP-2 in patients

BACKGROUND

Matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs), which show a significant ability to cleave the components of extracellular matrix, and tissue inhibitors of metalloproteinases (TIMPs), which slow down the activity of those enzymes, may be implicated in the pathogenesis and spread of psoriatic disease. This study aims to analyze plasma levels of MMP-2 and TIMP-2 in plaque psoriasis patients before and after the course of narrowband ultraviolet-B (NBUVB) therapy with respect to disease advancement.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

A total of 49 patients suffering from plaque psoriasis and 40 healthy volunteers were enrolled into the study. Plasma levels of MMP-2 and TIMP-2 were determined using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay, while Psoriasis Area and Severity Index (PASI) was used to define the disease advancement.

RESULTS

The results showed increased plasma levels of MMP-2 and TIMP-2, but this change was significant only in case of MMP-2 in total psoriatic group compared to healthy subjects. Moreover, there was an increase in the concentrations of chosen factors with an increase in the severity of the disease. The NBUVB therapy causes a decline in the concentration of the analyzed enzyme and its inhibitor, although this change was statistically significant in the total psoriatic group only in case of MMP-2. There was also a positive correlation between MMP-2, TIMP-2, and PASI score value.

CONCLUSION

Our study highlights a possible important role of MMP-2 in the activity of psoriasis and clearance of disease symptoms. Moreover, plasma MMP-2 seems to be a valuable psoriasis biomarker.

Plasma levels and diagnostic utility of VEGF, MMP-9, and TIMP-1 in the diagnosis of patients with breast cancer

Vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), matrix metalloproteinase-9, and tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinase-1 may play a role in the pathogenesis of cancer disease. We investigated their levels and utility in comparison to cancer antigen (CA) 15-3 in patients with breast cancer (BC) and in relation to the control groups. The study included 100 women with BC, 50 patients with benign breast tumor, and 50 healthy women. The plasma levels of the tested parameters were determined using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay, while CA 15-3 with chemiluminescent microparticle immunoassay. The results demonstrated significant differences in the concentration of the tested parameters and CA 15-3 between groups of patients with BC and healthy patients or patients with benign breast tumor. The plasma levels of VEGF and tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinase-1 were significantly higher in advanced tumor stages. The tested parameters were comparable to CA 15-3 values of the diagnostic sensitivity, specificity, the predictive values of positive and negative test results, and the area under the receiver-operating characteristic curve. The combined use of the tested parameters with CA 15-3 resulted in the increase in sensitivity, negative predictive value, and area under the receiver-operating characteristic curve, especially in the combination of VEGF with tumor marker (84%, 73%, 0.888, respectively). These findings suggest the usefulness of the tested parameters in the diagnosis of BC. VEGF, especially in combination with CA 15-3, showed the highest usefulness in the diagnosis of early BC.

Study of a contact between two chromosomally monomorphic races of Sorex araneus L. (common shrew)

One hundred and twelve specimens of the common shrew from 21 populations in NE Poland were studied from an area of contact between chromosomal race II (metacentric chromosomes: hi, ko, gm, np) and race VII (ki, hn, gr, mp). No direct contact was found between the races in the study area; there were no mixed or hybrid populations. The shortest distance between populations of the two races was 1.2-1.6 km. Possible explanations for this pattern of the races' disjunction are discussed.