Thymidine phosphorylase expression in normal, hyperplastic and neoplastic prostates: correlation with tumour associated macrophages, infiltrating lymphocytes, and angiogenesis
2002

Thymidine Phosphorylase in Prostate Cancer

Sample size: 80 publication Evidence: moderate

Author Information

Author(s): Sivridis E, Giatromanolaki A, Papadopoulos I, Gatter K C, Harris A L, Koukourakis M I

Primary Institution: Democritus University of Thrace, Alexandroupolis, Greece

Hypothesis

The study investigates the role of thymidine phosphorylase-expressing cells in angiogenesis in prostate adenocarcinomas.

Conclusion

Thymidine phosphorylase is a major angiogenic factor in prostate carcinomas, and its up-regulation is likely linked to a host immune response.

Supporting Evidence

  • High thymidine phosphorylase expression in cancer cells was associated with increased angiogenesis.
  • Thymidine phosphorylase expression was inversely related to prostate specific antigen reactivity.
  • Thymidine phosphorylase expression was linked to the presence of tumor-associated macrophages and tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes.

Takeaway

This study found that a protein called thymidine phosphorylase helps tumors grow new blood vessels in prostate cancer, especially when the body is fighting the cancer.

Methodology

The study analyzed 20 normal/hyperplastic prostate glands and 60 prostate carcinomas using immunohistochemistry to assess thymidine phosphorylase expression.

Participant Demographics

The study included 20 normal/hyperplastic prostate specimens and 60 prostate carcinoma specimens.

Statistical Information

P-Value

p=0.02

Statistical Significance

p<0.05

Digital Object Identifier (DOI)

10.1038/sj.bjc.6600281

Want to read the original?

Access the complete publication on the publisher's website

View Original Publication