Relationship of Heparanase,Tumor Metastasis and Angiogenesis

The metastasis of tumor cells is mainly defined as the breakthrough of two layers of barrier composed of extracellular matrix and basement membrane,and heparanase found in animal cells,is the only endogenous glucosidase which can degrade the side chain of heparan sulfate proteoglycan in extracellular matrix.The studies show a close relationship among heparanase,tumor metastasis and angiogenesis.This article focuses on the influence of heparanase on tumor metastasis and angiogenesis,and discusses the development status and significance of heparanase inhibitors.