Expression and Function of CD44 in Epithelial Ovarian Carcinoma

Abstract

CD44, a cell surface glycoprotein, has been increasingly implicated in the pathogenesis and progression of epithelial ovarian cancer, the deadliest gynecologic malignancy in women. Here, we review recent reports on the expression and function of CD44 in epithelial ovarian carcinoma. Further functional data for CD44 in peritoneal adhesion and metastatic progression and its association with stem cells is highlighted. Recent studies utilizing CD44 for therapeutic targeting are also discussed.

Keywords

• CD44
• epithelial ovarian carcinoma
• hyaluronan
• adhesion
• metastasis
• cancer stem cells