Serine proteases, such as urokinase-type plasminogen activator (uPA) and its receptor (uPAR), are involved in the activation of other proteases and the degradation of the ECM. The uPA/uPAR system is often upregulated in cancer and is associated with poor prognosis due to its role in promoting cell migration, invasion, and metastasis. Additionally, serine proteases are involved in the activation of growth factors that support tumor growth.
