What is CD34?
CD34 is a transmembrane phosphoglycoprotein that is commonly used as a marker to identify and isolate
hematopoietic stem cells and progenitor cells. It is expressed on early hematopoietic and vascular-associated tissues and plays a crucial role in the body's hematopoietic system.
Role of CD34 in Cancer
In the context of cancer, CD34 is significant for a variety of reasons. It is primarily used to identify malignant hematopoietic cells in certain types of
leukemia and
lymphoma. CD34-positive cells are often indicative of an early stage of cell development, which can be a marker for aggressive
tumor behavior in some cancers.
CD34 as a Diagnostic Tool
CD34 is widely utilized in
immunohistochemistry and flow cytometry to diagnose and classify various types of hematologic malignancies. For instance, its expression is a key diagnostic factor in
acute myeloid leukemia (AML). Additionally, CD34 expression helps in distinguishing between different subtypes of AML, which can influence treatment decisions.
Prognostic Value of CD34
The presence of CD34-positive cells in cancer can be a prognostic marker. In some cases, such as in AML, higher levels of CD34 expression are associated with poorer prognosis and a higher likelihood of relapse. This makes CD34 a valuable marker for risk stratification and treatment planning.CD34 in Solid Tumors
While CD34 is most commonly associated with hematologic malignancies, it also plays a role in the context of
solid tumors. CD34 is expressed in the endothelial cells of blood vessels, and its expression levels can be used to assess
angiogenesis in tumors. High levels of CD34-positive endothelial cells are often associated with aggressive tumor growth and metastasis.
Therapeutic Implications
Understanding the role of CD34 in cancer has therapeutic implications. For example, targeting CD34-positive cells with specific
antibodies or small molecules can potentially eliminate malignant cells while sparing normal cells. Additionally, CD34 can be used to isolate
stem cells for transplantation purposes, which is a common treatment for blood cancers.
Research and Future Directions
Ongoing research aims to further elucidate the role of CD34 in cancer. Studies are exploring its potential as a therapeutic target and its association with other
biomarkers. There is also interest in understanding the mechanisms that regulate CD34 expression and its role in cancer
stem cell biology.
