Anticancer potential of PEDF peptides

Abstract

Objectives

Pigment epithelium-derived factor (PEDF) has demonstrated a wide range of activities, the most notable of which is its role in cancer.

Methods

Articles were sourced from Scopus with the following keywords—PEDF, peptide(s), cancer, tumour, and tumour. There was no limit set on date of publication, and the language of publication was set to English.

Key findings

Researchers have found two functional epitopes in the PEDF sequence: a 34-mer peptide that mainly inhibits angiogenesis and a 44-mer peptide that mainly promotes differentiation and neurotrophic functions in certain cell lines. Furthermore, studies have demonstrated that shorter peptides in the 34-mer significantly contribute to its angiogenic activity. PEDF peptide functions as an anticancer agent through various mechanisms. The most salient feature is the blockade of angiogenesis by reducing VEGF levels. Angiogenesis is critical in tumour expansion, and it is known as the process whereby new blood vessels are formed from capillaries.

Conclusions

Researchers have studied several PEDF peptides in various types of cancer, including ovarian, breast, lung, osteosarcoma, and myeloma. This underscores the potential significance of the various PEDF peptides, given their known ability to influence angiogenesis and other biological processes.