How Removing Heparan Sulfate Affects ErbB4 Receptor Activity
Author Information
Author(s): Jorma A. Määttä, Kaisa Olli, Tiina Henttinen, Minna T. Tuittila, Klaus Elenius, Markku Salmivirta
Primary Institution: University of Turku
Hypothesis
The study investigates the effect of cell surface heparan sulfate on TACE activity and ErbB4 receptor cleavage.
Conclusion
Removing cell surface heparan sulfate increases TACE activity and the formation of the ErbB4 intracellular domain, which may promote cell survival.
Supporting Evidence
- Heparan sulfate was shown to regulate TACE activity.
- Increased TACE activity led to more ErbB4 intracellular domain formation.
- The study suggests a novel mechanism for how heparan sulfate degradation may promote cell survival in tumors.
Takeaway
When scientists took away a sugar called heparan sulfate from cells, they found that a protein called TACE worked better and made more of another protein that helps cells stay alive.
Methodology
The study involved enzymatic removal of heparan sulfate and analysis of TACE activity and ErbB4 cleavage in human breast cancer cells.
Statistical Information
P-Value
6 × 10-11
Statistical Significance
p = 6 × 10-11
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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