Quantification and molecular analysis of cathepsin D in breast cyst fluids

Eur J Cancer. 1992;28A(4-5):828-32. doi: 10.1016/0959-8049(92)90124-k.

Abstract

Cyst fluids from 55 premenopausal women with gross cystic breast disease were classified by K+/Na+ ratio: 19 with ratio over 1 (type I) and 36 with ratio less than 1 (type II). Immunoradiometric assay of cathepsin D in both types of cyst fluids revealed the presence of large amounts of this proteinase. The average concentration of cathepsin D in type I cyst fluids was 63.3 nmol/l, which was significantly higher than that corresponding to type II cyst fluids (35.1 nmol/l). Immunoprecipitation analysis of intracystic cathepsin D demonstrated that this protein was present as the 52 kD non-processed precursor form of the molecule. Since procathepsin D is a useful prognostic marker in breast carcinoma, we suggest that cyst fluid quantification of cathepsin D could aid to detect patients affecting of gross cystic disease with higher risk for developing breast cancer.

Publication types

  • Comparative Study
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Cathepsin D / analysis*
  • Exudates and Transudates / chemistry
  • Exudates and Transudates / enzymology*
  • Female
  • Fibrocystic Breast Disease / enzymology*
  • Fibrocystic Breast Disease / etiology
  • Humans
  • Isoenzymes / analysis*
  • Middle Aged
  • Potassium / analysis
  • Sodium / analysis

Substances

  • Isoenzymes
  • Sodium
  • Cathepsin D
  • Potassium