The role of kallikrein-related peptidases in prostate cancer: potential involvement in an epithelial to mesenchymal transition

Biol Chem. 2006 Jun;387(6):707-14. doi: 10.1515/BC.2006.089.

Abstract

Several members of the kallikrein-related peptidase family of serine proteases have proteolytic activities that may affect cancer progression; however, the in vivo significance of these activities remains uncertain. We have demonstrated that expression of PSA or KLK4, but not KLK2, in PC-3 prostate cancer cells changed the cellular morphology from epithelial to spindle-shaped, markedly reduced E-cadherin expression, increased vimentin expression and increased cellular migration. These changes are indicative of an epithelial to mesenchymal transition (EMT), a process important in embryonic development and cancer progression. The potential novel role of kallikrein-related peptidases in this process is the focus of this brief review.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Embryonic Induction
  • Epithelial Cells / pathology
  • Humans
  • Kallikreins / physiology*
  • Male
  • Mesenchymal Stem Cells / pathology
  • Peptide Hydrolases / physiology
  • Prostatic Neoplasms / enzymology*
  • Prostatic Neoplasms / etiology
  • Prostatic Neoplasms / pathology*

Substances

  • Peptide Hydrolases
  • Kallikreins