Palladin antibodies used in new cell marker study into pancreatic cancer

Over the years, antibody suppliers have developed an extensive cellular marker antibody database. Cell markers are plasma membrane proteins specific to certain cells – for example, stem or liver cells. They play a vital role in cellular communication, and their uniqueness has made them a useful tool in studying certain diseases, such as cancer.

Palladin is a cytoskeletal protein which was first identified by Carol Otey et al in 2000. It was named after the Renaissance architect Palladio, owing to its role in organising the “architectural” elements of the cell. Antibody studies showed Palladin had a variety of functions within the actin cytoskeleton; modulating cell morphology, adhesion, motility and extracellular communications in a variety of cells. The name reflects its function as a scaffolding molecule; it localises at active actin remodelling sites, regulating actin polymerisation and organising existing filaments into higher groups.

Palladin has a number of different isoforms, which may have different functions depending on the cell type. In 2006, Palladin RNA was shown to be upregulated in pancreatic neoplasias (spontaneous tumours), and over expressed and mutated in an inherited form of pancreatic cancer. Further studies by Salaria et al in 2007 suggest Palladin’s role is to cause changes in the microenvironment of pancreatic tumour cells.

Now, a new study by Carol Otey has identified a specific Palladin isotype expressed in tumour-associated fibroblasts (TAFs) i.e. the “nest” of cells surrounding pancreatic tumours. This reveals it as an important molecular marker in identifying pancreatic cancer in its early stages.

The study followed on from earlier antibody studies into Palladin isoforms, which revealed that only 2 were specific to pancreatic tissue, and only one was upregulated in TAF cells. It is thought the protein works by altering the fibroblasts to create channels into neighbouring tissue, allowing the cancer to spread. Pancreatic cancer is known for its speed and aggressiveness.

We at Novus Biologicals foresee a time when the Palladin antibodies in our antibody catalogue will be used as a therapeutic tool against pancreatic cancer.