Abstract
In view of the limitations associated with the present tumor markers for prostate cancer, we have examined the potential expression of two further markers, Cathepsin-D and pS2, in human prostate and attempted to link their concentrations with the histopathology of the tissue, the PSA levels and the androgenic status of the gland. Cathepsin-D and pS2 were measured in cytosol fractions obtained from 22 patients with benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) and 20 patients with prostate cancer (CaP) employing immunoassays specific for these markers. The concentrations of Cathepsin-D (BPH: mean +/- SEM = 18.50 +/- 1.88 nmol/g protein; CaP = 19.75 +/- 2.49 nmol/g protein) and pS2 (BPH = 1,024.7 +/- 348.06 ng/g protein; CaP = 1,513.88 +/- 268.60 ng/g protein) were not different in the two tissue types, whereas PSA in BPH tissue (1,952.27 +/- 249.93 micrograms/g protein) was significantly higher than the measurements in CaP (583.75 +/- 104.33 micrograms/g protein). However, none of the tumor marker concentrations correlated with the degree of differentiation of the tumors, and we were unable to establish any correlation with the levels of testosterone and dihydrotestosterone in the tissue. In conclusion, although Cathepsin-D and pS2 are expressed in prostate tissue, it is doubtful whether they will have an active role in the management of prostate cancer.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
