Abstract
Thymidine phosphorylase/platelet-derived endothelial cell growth factor (TP/PDECGF) has diverse functions within cells, including the regulation of thymidine levels, the mediation of angiogenesis and apoptosis and the activation of prodrugs of the cancer chemotherapeutic agent 5-fluorouracil (5FU). The purpose of this review is to provide an overview of the pro-tumor effects of TP, including the molecular mechanisms of angiogenesis stimulation and apoptosis inhibition by TP.