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Osteopontin as a target for cancer metastases One of the major challenges to the drug development sector is to identify therapeutic candidates that slow the rate of metastasis (Click here for free access to our recent dossier "Novel strategies for preventing metastasis"). Inhibitors of osteopontin, a cytokine that is essential for the dissemination of various cancers offers one particularly exciting target. Osteopontin contains binding sites for several receptors, including CD44 and integrin alphaV beta3, cell surface molecules which play a major role in mediating cell migration and adhesion. By binding to these receptors, osteopontin promotes not only tumor cell dissemination and metastasis, but also in angiogenesis and osteolysis. Past research has implied several modes in which osteopontin and its main receptors on tumor cells can be suppressed. Osteopontin expression is inhibitable at the levels of gene transcription and the RNA message, and the osteopontin protein can be blocked with antibodies or synthetic peptides. The osteopontin receptor CD44 has been targeted by diverse therapeutic strategies, including cytotoxic and immunotherapeutic approaches. Small molecule inhibitors of integrin alphaV beta3 are under study as drug candidates. Very high levels of osteopontin have been measured in most tumors and also in the plasma of cancer patients, whereas low levels are detected in healthy tissue suggesting that blockade of osteopontin represents a highly specific and effective approach to metastasis. The metastasis gene osteopontin: a candidate target for cancer therapy. Weber, Biochim Biophys Acta 2001 Dec 28;1552(2):61-85 Interested in collaborating with this group? Contact leaddiscovery@bioportfolio.co.uk LeadDiscovery and BioPortfolio aims to provide reliable, insightful analysis on the biotechnology industry. However, this information is provided "as is" and no representations or warranties either express or implied of completeness, accuracy, or of any other nature are made with respect to this information. This information is neither an offer to sell nor a solicitation to buy the securities of any company. This information contains forward-looking statements, which involve risks and uncertainties which may not be listed. The biotechnology industry is an emerging industry and the securities of the companies mentioned in this report have a very high degree of risk and volatility. For this reason, this information is supplied on the condition that the reader will make his or her own determination as to its suitability for any purpose prior to any use of this information. The employees and officers of LeadDiscovery and BioPortfolio may hold positions in some or all of the stocks discussed in this report. This abstract has been produced by LeadDiscovery Ltd. Founded by life scientists for life scientists we aim to help industry identify cutting edge drug discovery options and academic/biotech institutions maximize the potential of their research. Abstracts strictly reflect the opinion of LeadDiscovery's editorial panel. While all reasonable efforts are made to ensure the accuracy of information provided LeadDiscovery and the publisher BioPortfolio, takes no responsibility for incorrect or misleading information. LeadDiscovery is designed for educational and drug development purposes only and is not intended or designed to offer medical advice or advice of any sort, and must not be used for such purpose. The information provided through LeadDiscovery and BioPortfolio should not be used for diagnosing or treating a health problem or a disease and no reliance should be placed on any information contained in this abstract or elsewhere on LeadDiscovery's and BioPortfolio's website. It is not intended to be a substitute for professional care. If you have or suspect you may have a health problem, you should consult your physician or other health care provider. |
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