Heparanase, hyaluronan, and CD44 in cancers: a breast carcinoma perspective.

Götte M, Yip GW

Review (journal)

Abstract

Glycosaminoglycans are major constituents of the cancer cell surface and the tumor stroma. The heparan sulfate degrading enzyme heparanase, hyaluronan, and its receptor CD44 are up-regulated in breast cancer, generating a microenvironment that promotes tumor progression and metastasis. Recent experimental and clinical evidence shows that heparanase, hyaluronan, and CD44 regulate cancer cell proliferation, migration, and invasion, as well as tumor-associated angiogenesis and are correlated with patient survival. These findings suggest that they may be used as prognostic factors and targets for breast cancer treatment.