Anti-tumor effects of pigment epithelium-derived factor (PEDF): implication for cancer therapy. A mini-review

Louiza BelkacemiEmail author and
Shaun Xiaoliu ZhangEmail author

Journal of Experimental & Clinical Cancer Research201635:4

DOI: 10.1186/s13046-015-0278-7

Received: 9 November 2015

Accepted: 22 December 2015

Published: 8 January 2016

Abstract

Pigment epithelium-derived factor (PEDF) is a secreted glycoprotein and a non-inhibitory member of the serine protease inhibitor (serpin) family. It is widely expressed in human fetal and adult tissues but its expression decreases with age and in malignant tissues. The main anti-cancer activities of PEDF derive from its dual effects, either indirectly on the tumor microenvironment (indirect antitumor action) or directly on the tumor itself (direct antitumor influence). The indirect antitumor activities of PEDF were uncovered from the early findings that it stimulates retinoblastoma cell differentiation and that additionally it possesses anti-angiogenic, anti-tumorigenic and anti-metastatic properties. The mechanisms of its direct antitumor effect, however, have not been fully elucidated. This review highlights recent progress in our understanding of the multifunctional activities of PEDF and, in particular, its anti-cancer signaling mechanisms. Additionally, we discuss the possibility of using novel phosphaplatin compounds that can upregulate PEDF expression as a chemotherapy for cancer treatment.