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Pathways of coagulation/fibrinolysis activation in malignancy
L R Zacharski1, M Z Wojtukiewicz, V Costantini
1Department of Medicine, Dartmouth Medical School, Hanover, New Hampshire.
Seminars in Thrombosis and Hemostasis
|January 1, 1992
Summary
Malignancy interacts with blood clotting and fibrinolysis via distinct tumor cell pathways. This research proposes a novel tumor classification based on these interactions, potentially leading to new cancer treatments.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Hematology
- Biochemistry
Background:
- Malignancy involves complex interactions with human coagulation and fibrinolysis systems.
- Disseminated intravascular coagulation in cancer patients is better understood.
- Two distinct tumor growth regulation pathways exist: thrombin formation initiators and plasminogen activators.
Purpose of the Study:
- To propose a preliminary classification of tumors based on their interactions with coagulation and fibrinolysis.
- To investigate the role of tumor cell-produced thrombin formation initiators and plasminogen activators in cancer growth.
- To provide a testable hypothesis for further research and potential therapeutic interventions.
Main Methods:
- Classification of tumors into Type I (coagulation pathway, no u-PA), Type II (u-PA, no coagulation pathway), and Type III (neither pathway).
- Analysis of tumor cell production of thrombin formation initiators and plasminogen activators.
- Review of existing clinical trial data to support the proposed classification.
Main Results:
- Type I tumors include SCCL, malignant melanoma, and renal cell carcinoma.
- Type II tumors include prostate cancer, colon cancer, breast cancer, and N-SCLC.
- The proposed classification aligns with limited available clinical data.
Conclusions:
- A hypothetical tumor classification based on coagulation and fibrinolysis interactions has been proposed.
- This classification can be further tested and refined by characterizing additional tumor types.
- Understanding these interactions offers promise for novel, low-cost, and effective cancer treatment strategies.