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Functional role of specific secreted and cell surface molecules in tumour cell invasion and metastasis
J P Quigley1, L M Sullivan, C M DeMarinis
1Department of Pathology, SUNY Health Science Center, Stony Brook 11794.
Abstract:
The invasion and metastatic spread of tumour cells are complex biological processes involving an array of cell surface and secreted protein molecules which function as specific recognition and catalytic agents in each step of the malignant cascade. In order to begin to identify these molecules and implicate them as true functioning agents, our laboratory has developed selected panels of monoclonal antibodies that have been screened for their ability to inhibit specific manifestations of the malignant phenotype in various model systems. Since monoclonal antibodies recognize only single and unique determinants, it is hypothesized that any monoclonal antibody which is specifically antifunctional will allow for the identification and isolation of relevant protein molecules.
Insights
Researchers developed monoclonal antibodies to identify proteins involved in tumor cell invasion and metastasis. These antibodies target specific molecular functions, aiding in the discovery of key players in cancer spread.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Molecular Biology
- Immunology
Background:
- Tumor cell invasion and metastasis are critical steps in cancer progression.
- Cell surface and secreted proteins play vital roles in mediating these processes.
- Identifying these specific molecular agents is crucial for understanding and targeting cancer spread.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop and utilize monoclonal antibodies for identifying protein molecules involved in tumor cell invasion and metastasis.
- To screen monoclonal antibodies for their ability to inhibit specific aspects of the malignant phenotype.
- To leverage monoclonal antibody specificity for isolating key proteins in the metastatic cascade.
Main Methods:
- Development of selected panels of monoclonal antibodies.
- Screening of antibodies for their functional inhibitory effects on malignant phenotypes in model systems.
- Utilizing the principle that antifunctional monoclonal antibodies can identify their target molecules.
Main Results:
- Monoclonal antibodies were generated and screened for functional inhibition of cancer cell behaviors.
- The study established a method to link antibody function to specific molecular targets.
- This approach facilitates the identification of proteins critical for tumor cell invasion and metastasis.
Conclusions:
- Monoclonal antibodies are powerful tools for dissecting the molecular mechanisms of cancer metastasis.
- Antifunctional antibodies can be used to identify and isolate proteins that drive tumor cell invasion and spread.
- This strategy aids in discovering novel therapeutic targets for inhibiting cancer metastasis.