Anti-angiogenic effects of two cystine-knot miniproteins from tomato fruit.

ABSTRACT:

Background and purpose

Cystine-knot miniproteins are characterized by a similar molecular structure. Some cystine-knot miniproteins display therapeutically useful biological activities, as antithrombotic agents or tumour growth inhibitors. A critical event in the progression of tumours is the formation of new blood vessels. The aim of this work was to test two tomato cystine-knot miniproteins for their effects on endothelial cell proliferation and angiogenesis in vitro.

Experimental approach

Two tomato cystine-knot miniproteins (TCMPs) were expressed and purified either as recombinant or as native proteins from tomato fruits. The Matrigel assay was used to investigate the effects of TCMPs on in vitro angiogenesis. Viability and proliferation of endothelial cells were tested.

SUBMITTER: Cavallini C 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC3058160 | biostudies-literature | 2011 Mar

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature