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Expression and function of squamous cell carcinoma antigen

H Kato1

  • 1Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Yamaguchi University School of Medicine, Ube, Japan.

Anticancer Research
|July 1, 1996
PubMed

Insights

Squamous cell carcinoma antigen (SCCA) is a serpin that inhibits proteases and may influence cancer invasion. Its presence in eutherian mammals suggests a role in skin stratification and differentiation.

Area of Science:

  • Biochemistry
  • Molecular Biology
  • Oncology

Background:

  • Squamous cell carcinoma antigen (SCCA) aids in managing squamous cell carcinoma.
  • SCCA gene is located at 18q21.3 and shares homology with inhibitory serpins.
  • SCCA exhibits inhibitory activity against proteases like chymotrypsin and cathepsin L.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To describe the expression and function of SCCA.
  • To discuss the potential role of SCCA in the biological behavior of squamous cells, both malignant and non-malignant.

Main Methods:

  • Analysis of SCCA gene expression and function.
  • Southern blot analysis of SCCA gene across various vertebrate species.

Main Results:

  • SCCA is present in spinous and granular layers of mature squamous epithelium.
  • SCCA gene is found in most eutherian species but absent in metatheria, birds, reptiles, amphibians, and teleosts.
  • SCCA's homology to serpins suggests a role in intercellular adhesion and potentially cancer invasion/metastasis.

Conclusions:

  • SCCA likely plays a role in the stratification and differentiation of the integument.
  • SCCA may contribute to the malignant behaviors of squamous cell carcinoma, such as invasion and metastasis.

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