Alterations in cathepsin H activity and protein patterns in human colorectal carcinomas
2000
Changes in Cathepsin H Activity in Colorectal Cancer
Sample size: 77
publication
Evidence: moderate
Author Information
Author(s): Re E C del, Shuja S, Cai J, Murnane M J
Primary Institution: Boston University School of Medicine
Hypothesis
Altered proteinase expression patterns may reflect both cancer stage and site.
Conclusion
Cathepsin H activity is significantly increased in colorectal cancers compared to normal mucosa, indicating its potential role in cancer progression.
Supporting Evidence
- Cathepsin H-specific activity was significantly increased in colorectal cancers compared to control mucosa.
- Highest specific activities were measured in Dukes' B and C stage carcinomas.
- Normal mucosa typically showed a strong protein doublet at 31 and 29 kDa, while cancers demonstrated decreased expression of the 31 kDa protein.
- C/N ratios for cathepsin H enzyme activity correlated significantly with C/N ratios for the 29 kDa mature single-chain protein form.
Takeaway
This study found that a protein called cathepsin H is more active in colorectal cancer than in normal tissue, which might help doctors understand how advanced the cancer is.
Methodology
The study analyzed cathepsin H activity levels and protein forms in human colorectal cancers compared to matched control mucosa.
Statistical Information
P-Value
0.003
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
Want to read the original?
Access the complete publication on the publisher's website