heparanase
Summary
Heparanase is an endoglycosidase that cleaves heparan sulfate in the extracellular matrix and basement membrane, facilitating cell invasion and metastasis. Overexpressed in malignant tumors and contributes to tumor progression and angiogenesis.
Detail
Heparanase (HPSE) specifically degrades heparan sulfate proteoglycans, critical components of the basement membrane. Cleavage disrupts this barrier, allowing tumor cells to invade and metastasize. Additionally, heparanase-mediated degradation releases sequestered growth factors (VEGF, FGF, HGF), promoting angiogenesis. Expression is upregulated in solid tumors and hematologic malignancies, correlating with poor prognosis. The enzyme is also implicated in immune cell trafficking and inflammation. Heparanase inhibitors are being investigated as anti-cancer agents.
Sources
- Robbins Basic Pathology
- Molecular Biology of the Cell
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