CYSTEINE CATHEPSINS: PROSPECTS FOR THEIR USE IN DIAGNOSTICS AND THERAPY OF MALIGNANT TUMORS
Cysteine cathepsins represent proteolytic enzymes executing protein degradation in lysosomes and endosomes. Cysteine cathepsins are also detected in tumor microenvironment during carcinogenesis. These enzymes are implicated in proliferation, invasion and metastasis through the degradation of extracellular matrix and of intercellular interactions, thus promoting angiogenesis. Therefore, the cathepsins have a diagnostic value and represent promising targets for antitumor dmgs inhibiting these enzymes. Moreover, cysteine cathepsins can be used as activators in targeted therapy assays. This review summarizes the recent data on the role of cysteine cathepsins in carcinogenesis and the recent trends in cancer therapy and diagnostics utilizing cysteine cathepsins as markers, targets or activators.