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Urinary type IV collagenase: elevated levels are associated with bladder transitional cell carcinoma
I M Margulies1, M Höyhtyä, C Evans
1Laboratory of Pathology, National Cancer Institute, NIH, Bethesda, Maryland 20892.
Summary
Elevated levels of M(r) 72,000 type IV collagenase in urine indicate a potential biomarker for bladder cancer. This enzyme, found in various forms, may aid in diagnosing transitional cell carcinoma.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Biochemistry
- Urology
Background:
- Overproduction of matrix metalloproteinases is linked to tumor invasion.
- Type IV collagenase (M(r) 72,000 gelatinase) is a key metalloproteinase.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the presence and forms of type IV collagenase in the urine of bladder cancer patients.
- To evaluate its potential as a diagnostic or prognostic marker for transitional cell carcinoma.
Main Methods:
- Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA)
- Western immunoblotting
- Gelatin zymography
- Immunohistochemical staining of tumor biopsies
Main Results:
- Type IV collagenase was significantly elevated in the urine of transitional cell carcinoma patients compared to controls.
- The enzyme was detected in urine as fragments and complexes with tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinases 2.
- A distinct M(r) 43,000 fragment was associated with cancer cases.
- Immunohistochemistry confirmed tumor cells produced the M(r) 72,000 enzyme.
Conclusions:
- Urine M(r) 72,000 type IV collagenase, in various forms, shows potential as a biomarker for bladder cancer.
- Further research is warranted to establish its diagnostic and prognostic utility.