Endostatin expression in pancreatic tissue is modulated by elastase
2005
Endostatin in the pancreas
Editorial
Author Information
Author(s): Wigmore S J
Primary Institution: University of Edinburgh
Hypothesis
The expression of endostatin in pancreatic tissues may in part explain the relatively avascular nature of these tumours.
Conclusion
Endostatin can exert profound effects on xenografted human pancreas cancers, and understanding its role may improve treatment strategies.
Supporting Evidence
- Endostatin was detectable in human pancreatic cancers but not in normal pancreas.
- Endostatin expression is associated with stable levels due to low elastase expression in pancreatic cancers.
- Endostatin can prevent the growth of tumors by inhibiting blood vessel formation.
Takeaway
Endostatin is a substance that can stop blood vessels from growing in tumors, and it might help explain why some pancreatic cancers don't have many blood vessels.
Limitations
The study does not address whether products of endostatin resulting from elastase digestion retain activity as inhibitors of angiogenesis.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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