Properties and functions of myeloperoxidase and its role in ovarian cancer

Abstract

Background: Elevated levels of myeloperoxidase in body fluids are increasingly being used as an indicator for the diagnosis of cancer. Aim of the study: The aim of this study was to review the literature on the physical and chemical properties of myeloperoxidase, its role in carcinogenesis, the role of tumor-associated neutrophils in cancer, and the role of myeloperoxidase in ovarian cancer. Material and methods: The research literature published between January 1999 and December 2019 was reviewed. The properties and role of myeloperoxidase in the development of ovarian cancer were selected from publications available in selected online databases, including MEDLINE, PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science. Searches were performed using the following word combinations: “myeloperoxidase”, “ovarian cancer”, “reactive oxygen species”, “expression”, “polymorphism”, and “tumor-associated neutrophils”. Results: Thirty-five scientific articles were included in the final review. Of the 35 articles, 11 discussed the role of myeloperoxidase in carcinogenesis, and five discussed its role in the development of ovarian cancer. Conclusions: Elevated myeloperoxidase levels are associated with many types of cancer, including ovarian cancer. In the studied group of invasive ovarian tumors, up to 65% exhibited elevated levels of myeloperoxidase. Continued research on myeloperoxidase expression in ovarian cancer cells is vital and warranted.