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Over 50 genes are inducible by hypoxia, via hypoxia inducible factor 1alpha (HIF-1alpha). Carbonic anhydrase IX (CAIX) is one of the most inducible and most uniformly induced genes and because of its stability and membrane location provides a reliable histochemical marker of hypoxia. Recent studies have shown the importance of pH in cell death under hypoxia, thus mechanisms of pH regulation are likely to be vital pathways for survival. Carbonic anhydrases have a widespread role in normal tissues in regulating pH, with 14 isoforms described, so inhibition may have substantial normal tissue toxicity. Selective nonmembrane permeable inhibitors are available and may synergise with chemotherapy agents more active in acid conditions. CAIX has a major role in regulating hydrogen ion (H+) flux and blockade of CAIX results in increased cell death under hypoxia, indicating that it is one mechanism of hypoxic adaptation. As it is commonly expressed in tumours with the worst prognosis it is a potential target for therapy.

Type

Journal article

Journal

Cell Cycle

Publication Date

02/2004

Volume

3

Pages

164 - 167

Keywords

Animals, Antigens, Neoplasm, Antineoplastic Agents, Biomarkers, Tumor, Carbonic Anhydrase IX, Carbonic Anhydrases, Cell Hypoxia, Cell Survival, HeLa Cells, Humans, Hydrogen-Ion Concentration, Hypoxia-Inducible Factor 1, alpha Subunit, Mice, Mitomycin, NIH 3T3 Cells, Neoplasms, Protein Isoforms, Signal Transduction, Transcription Factors