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Thrombomodulin: tumour biology and prognostic implications
A M Hanly1, A Hayanga, D C Winter
1Department of Surgery, Research and Education Building, Beaumont Hospital, Beaumont, Dublin 9, Ireland. amhanly@indigo.ie
Summary
Thrombomodulin (TM), an anticoagulant receptor, is crucial in tumor biology and prognosis. Its expression on tumor cells impacts cancer progression and offers a potential therapeutic target for impeding cancer spread.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Vascular Biology
- Molecular Biology
Background:
- Thrombomodulin (TM) is an endothelial receptor with anticoagulant, anti-fibrinolytic, and anti-inflammatory properties.
- Emerging evidence highlights TM's significant role in modulating tumor behavior.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the literature on Thrombomodulin's role in tumor biology.
- To investigate the prognostic significance of TM expression in various cancers.
Main Methods:
- Systematic review of electronic literature from 1966 to 2004.
- Focused analysis on the relationship between TM and tumor biology.
Main Results:
- TM is expressed on both endothelial and tumor cells in several cancer types.
- Loss of TM expression correlates with a more malignant tumor profile and poorer prognosis.
- Hypoxia, endotoxin, and cytokines can mediate TM loss, while pentoxifylline and statins may up-regulate TM.
Conclusions:
- Thrombomodulin (TM) is integral to tumor biology and prognostics, extending beyond its known anticoagulant functions.
- TM represents a potential therapeutic target for inhibiting cancer metastasis and progression.