Are There Diagnostic Applications for Cysteine Cathepsins in Cancer?
Yes, cysteine cathepsins have potential diagnostic applications in cancer. Elevated levels of certain cysteine cathepsins in serum, plasma, or tissue samples can serve as biomarkers for cancer detection and monitoring. For instance, increased expression of cathepsin B has been associated with poor prognosis in patients with breast, ovarian, and colorectal cancers. Measuring the activity or expression of cysteine cathepsins could aid in early diagnosis, prognostication, and monitoring of treatment response.
