| [ Summary ] |
Parathyroid hormone-related protein (PTHrP) has been identified as an endocrine factor responsible for humoral hypercalcemia of malignancy. Investigation of PTHrP has so far revealed its physiological functions in several tissues including cartilage, vascular smooth muscle, and mammary glands. Recent advances in PTHrP studies have demonstrated the pathophysiological involvement of PTHrP in several diseases other than malignancy. Moreover, it is proposed that PTHrP and its actions may be a potential therapeutic target. |