Can Cathepsins Serve as Biomarkers for Cancer Diagnosis?
Elevated levels of certain cathepsins in blood, tissue, or other body fluids can serve as potential biomarkers for cancer diagnosis and prognosis. For instance, increased levels of cathepsin B and L have been associated with poor prognosis in cancers such as breast, colorectal, and lung cancer. However, the specificity and sensitivity of cathepsins as biomarkers need further validation in clinical settings.