Deregulated expression of connective tissue growth factor (CTGF/CCN2) is linked to poor outcome in human cancer

Int J Cancer. 2015 Aug 1;137(3):504-11. doi: 10.1002/ijc.28972. Epub 2014 May 30.

Abstract

Connective tissue growth factor (CTGF/CCN2) has long been associated with human cancers. The role it plays in these neoplasms is diverse and tumour specific. Recurring patterns in clinical outcome, histological desmoplasia and mechanisms of action have been found. When CTGF is overexpressed compared to low-expressing normal tissue or is underexpressed compared to high-expressing normal tissue, the functional outcome favours tumour survival and disease progression. CTGF acts by altering proliferation, drug resistance, angiogenesis, adhesion and migration contributing to metastasis. The pattern of CTGF expression and tumour response helps to clarify the role of this matricellular protein across a multitude of human cancers.

Keywords: CCN2; cancer; connective tissue growth factor (CTGF).

Publication types

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

MeSH terms

  • Cell Adhesion / genetics
  • Cell Movement / genetics
  • Cell Proliferation
  • Connective Tissue Growth Factor / genetics*
  • Connective Tissue Growth Factor / metabolism
  • Drug Resistance, Neoplasm / genetics
  • Gene Expression Regulation, Neoplastic*
  • Humans
  • Neoplasm Metastasis
  • Neoplasms / genetics*
  • Neoplasms / mortality*
  • Neoplasms / pathology
  • Neovascularization, Pathologic / genetics
  • Organ Specificity / genetics
  • Patient Outcome Assessment
  • Prognosis

Substances

  • Connective Tissue Growth Factor