Related Experiment Video

Updated: Jul 28, 2026

Heterotypic Three-dimensional In Vitro Modeling of Stromal-Epithelial Interactions During Ovarian Cancer Initiation and Progression
12:42

Heterotypic Three-dimensional In Vitro Modeling of Stromal-Epithelial Interactions During Ovarian Cancer Initiation and Progression

Published on: August 28, 2012

Activation of SPARC expression in reactive stroma associated with human epithelial ovarian cancer

T J Brown1, P A Shaw, X Karp

  • 1Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Toronto, Ontario, Canada.

Gynecologic Oncology
|September 30, 1999
PubMed
Abstract

Insights

Secreted protein, acidic, rich in cysteine (SPARC) is upregulated in the stroma of invasive ovarian cancer. SPARC may be internalized by cancer cells, influencing their behavior.

Area of Science:

  • Oncology
  • Molecular Biology
  • Gynecologic Pathology

Background:

  • Secreted protein, acidic, rich in cysteine (SPARC) is a glycoprotein implicated in tumor progression.
  • SPARC is typically downregulated in ovarian carcinomas, suggesting a tumor suppressor role.
  • Understanding SPARC expression changes during ovarian malignant transformation is crucial.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the distribution of SPARC mRNA and protein in malignant and nonmalignant ovarian tissues.
  • To clarify the role of SPARC in ovarian cancer development and invasiveness.

Main Methods:

  • In situ hybridization and immunohistochemistry were used to examine SPARC expression.
  • Patient specimens included 24 invasive ovarian cancers, 5 tumors of low malignant potential (LMP), and 8 nonmalignant ovaries.

Main Results:

  • SPARC mRNA and protein were detected in specific cells of nonmalignant ovaries.
  • Invasive ovarian cancers showed high SPARC mRNA and protein expression in the tumor stroma, especially at the invasive front.
  • SPARC protein was found in cancer cells, despite absent mRNA, suggesting internalization.

Conclusions:

  • SPARC is upregulated in the reactive stroma of invasive ovarian cancer.
  • Stromal SPARC may be internalized by ovarian cancer cells, potentially influencing intracellular functions.

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