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Different pattern of zymography between human gynecologic normal and malignant tissues
K Tamakoshi1, F Kikkawa, A Nawa
1Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Nagoya University School of Medicine, Japan.
American Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology
|August 1, 1994
Summary
Type IV collagenase activity, particularly specific gelatinase forms, is significantly elevated in ovarian and endometrial cancers. These enzymes may play a role in cancer cell metastasis.
Area of Science:
- Biochemistry
- Oncology
- Molecular Biology
Background:
- Type IV collagen is a major component of basement membranes.
- Degradation of basement membranes is crucial for cancer cell invasion and metastasis.
- Matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) are key enzymes involved in extracellular matrix degradation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the presence and activity of type IV collagenase (gelatinase) in ovarian and endometrial cancer tissues.
- To compare gelatinase activity in cancerous tissues with normal tissues and uterine myoma.
Main Methods:
- Tissue specimens were collected from patients diagnosed with ovarian cancer, endometrial cancer, and uterine myoma.
- Gelatinase activity was assessed using zymography.
- Enzyme activity was quantified using densitometry.
Main Results:
- Four dominant gelatinases (200, 130, 92, and 72 kd) were detected in ovarian and endometrial cancer tissues.
- Active forms of 92 kd (83 kd) and 72 kd (66 kd) gelatinases were identified.
- Ratios of 92 kd/72 kd and 66 kd/72 kd gelatinases were significantly higher in both ovarian and endometrial cancer tissues compared to normal tissues.
Conclusions:
- Gelatinase activity is markedly increased in ovarian and endometrial cancer tissues.
- Specific gelatinases (92, 83, and 66 kd) were prominently detected in cancer tissues.
- Elevated gelatinase activity suggests a correlation with the malignant phenotype and metastatic potential due to basement membrane degradation.