Utility of PLVAP for Early Detection, Prognostic Prediction and Therapy of Liver and Other Cancers

Reference #:

2004-004

Inventors/Contributors

Lewis R. Roberts M.D., Michael R. Charlton M.D., David M. Nagorney M.D.

Description

Mayo Clinic researchers have produced antibodies against the protein product of a gene that is overexpressed by more than five-fold in 15 out of 20 of the HCCs studied. Real-time RT-PCR analysis has validated the elevation in mRNA expression of the gene in HCC. The gene is expressed in tumor-associated new vessels. HCCs are highly vascular and frequently invade vascular structures such as the portal veins. Vascular invasion by HCCs is a poor prognostic factor. Since the gene was up-regulated in HCCs of all the etiologies, grades, and stages examined, we hypothesize that up-regulation of this protein is associated with tumor-associated neovascularization in HCC and may be a useful diagnostic and prognostic marker for HCC and other cancers in blood, cytological specimens from needle biopsies, and tissue sections. This protein will also provide a target for anti-angiogenic immune and drug therapies against HCC and other cancers.

Patent Status

Pending