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Solid tumor cells express functional "tethered ligand" thrombin receptor
M Z Wojtukiewicz1, D G Tang, E Ben-Josef
1Department of Radiation Oncology, Wayne State University, Detroit, Michigan 48202.
Cancer Research
|February 1, 1995
Summary
This study shows that thrombin receptors on tumor cells mediate alpha-thrombin
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Molecular Biology
- Biochemistry
Background:
- Previous studies indicated alpha-thrombin enhances tumor cell metastasis.
- The role of the thrombin receptor in mediating these effects was unclear.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate if thrombin's effects on tumor cells are mediated by the thrombin receptor.
- To confirm the presence and functionality of thrombin receptors on tumor cells.
Main Methods:
- Reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) and Southern hybridization to detect thrombin receptor mRNA.
- Immunoblotting using a specific antibody (mAb ATAP138) to detect thrombin receptor protein.
- Peptide stimulation assays to assess tumor cell adhesion.
Main Results:
- Thrombin receptor mRNA and protein were detected in human, rat, and mouse tumor cells.
- The antibody's reactivity was blocked by a specific peptide (TRP 14), confirming specificity.
- Peptides mimicking thrombin (TRP 14 and TRP 7) stimulated tumor cell adhesion to fibronectin.
Conclusions:
- Solid tumor cells express functional thrombin receptors.
- These receptors mediate alpha-thrombin's effects on tumor cell adhesion and potentially metastasis.