Shang RZ, Dai B, Wang DS. Role of uPA/uPAR system in tumors.
Shijie Huaren Xiaohua Zazhi 2014;
22:1235-1240. [DOI:
10.11569/wcjd.v22.i9.1235]
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Abstract
Urokinase type plasminogen activator (uPA) is a major activator of plasminogen, and uPA receptor is the specific receptor of uPA. The uPA/uPAR system regulates plasminogen activity, which participates in degradation and remodeling of the extracellular matrix (ECM), and is involved in many pathophysiological processes. In neoplasms, the activation of plasminogen into plasmin caused by the uPA/uPAR system induces the degradation of components in the basement membrane as well as in the ECM, which provides a favorable microenvironment for tumor invasion and metastasis. In addition, the uPA/uPAR system regulates tumor proliferation and angiogenesis. In this review, we will discuss the role of the uPA/uPAR system in tumors and its potential clinical implications.
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