Abstract
OBJECTIVES: Human neutrophil proteins-1, -2, and -3 (HNPs -1, -2, and -3) are expressed in several tumor types. However, the role of HNPs 1-3 in human bladder cancer has not yet been determined. We investigated the association between the plasma levels of HNPs 1-3 and clinicopathological parameters in bladder cancer patients. DESIGN AND METHODS: The plasma levels of HNPs 1-3 were measured in 60 patients with bladder cancer and in 58 healthy controls. The plasma levels of HNPs 1-3 were determined by a solid-phase enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Plasma samples were obtained before surgery. Plasma samples were permitted to clot and were then stored at -80 °C until use. RESULTS: The levels of the HNPs increased from grade 1 to 4 tumors and this difference was statistically significant (p < 0.001). Additionally, plasma HNP levels were significantly higher in patients with metastatic bladder cancer and in patients with lymphovascular involvement, metastasis of the lymph nodes, and increased tumor burden (p < 0.001). CONCLUSIONS: The preoperative plasma levels of HNPs 1-3 paralleled the progression and pathological stages of the malignancies. This study suggests that HNPs 1-3 promote tumor invasion and are potential indicators of disease progression in patients with bladder cancer.