Urokinase plasminogen activator (u-PA) in serous ovarian tumors. Translocation of mrna expression from the epithelium in benign and well differentiated to the stroma in poorly differentiated tumors
Degradation of extracellular matrix, is a prerequisite for processes like tumor invasion and angiogenesis. Numerous studies indicate that plasminogen activation, initiated by u-PA, is a key process in malignant tumor growth. The expression of u-PA as well as its receptor is increased in malignant ovarian tumors. Additionally, u-PA stimulates signal transduction leading to cell proliferation and mi