The urokinase plasminogen activator system: a rich source of tumour markers for the individualised management of patients with cancer

摘要: The urokinase plasminogen activator (uPA) system consists of the serine protease uPA, glycolipid-anchored receptor, uPAR, and 2 serpin inhibitors, inhibitor-1 (PAI-1) inhibitor-2 (PAI-2). Recent findings suggest that uPAR PAI-1 play a critical role in cancer invasion metastasis. Consistent with their dissemination, high levels multiple types correlate adverse patient outcome. prognostic value uPA/PAI-1 axillary node-negative breast patients was recently validated using both prospective randomised trial pooled analysis. Assay uPA may thus help identify low-risk for whom adjuvant chemotherapy is unnecessary. Finally, emerging data are associated preferential response to but relative resistance hormone therapy. measurement components, especially cancer, has potential individualised management.