Modulation of the physical interaction between platelets and the cell surface effecting cell proliferation
The growth and/or proliferation of mammalian cells are modulated by modulating the physical interaction between platelets (thrombocytes) and the surface of the cells. Sulfated polysaccharides, preferably glycosaminoglycans, can be used as a medicament for the inhibition of the physical interaction between the cell surface and platelets in the treatment of a medical disorder associated with unwanted cell growth and/or proliferation. The physical interaction between platelets (thrombocytes) and the surface of the cells can be modulated in vitro in order to modulate cell proliferation. Inhibition of the interaction between the cell surface and platelets can inhibit cell growth, and enhancement of the interaction between platelets and the surface of the cell can enhance cell growth.
1. A method of treating cancer in a subject in need thereof comprising administering a pharmaceutical composition comprising a soluble sulfated polysaccharide to said subject, wherein said soluble sulfated polysaccharide does not comprise the terminal pentasaccharide of Heparin and has a degree of sulfation of greater than or equal to 1, and wherein proliferation of cancerous cells in the subject is reduced by said soluble sulfated polysaccharide inhibiting a physical interaction between cancer cell surfaces and platelets.
2. The method according to claim 1 , wherein said subject is a human.
3. The method according to claim 1 , wherein the degree of sulfation of said polysaccharide is >1.2.
4. The method according to claim 1 , wherein the degree of sulfation of said polysaccharide is >1.4.
5. The method according to claim 1 , wherein the soluble sulfated polysaccharide exhibits an average molecular weight of about 5000 to about 12000 daltons.
6. The method according to claim 1 , wherein the soluble sulfated polysaccharide is pentosan polysulfate (PPS).
7. The method according to claim 1 , wherein the soluble sulfated polysaccharide is dextran sulfate (DXS).
8. The method according to claim 1 , wherein said soluble sulfated polysaccharide is a sulfated alginate.
9. The method according to claim 1 , wherein said soluble sulfated polysaccharide is a sulfated fucoidan.
10. The method according to claim 1 , wherein said soluble sulfated polysaccharide is locally administered in proximity to a tumor.