The PSC risk gene GPR35 drives angiogenesis in the cancer microenvironment

G protein-coupled receptor GPR35 is a risk gene for PSC and predisposing factor for liver and colon cancer. To study the oncogenic role of GPR35, colon cancer was assessed in normal mice (Gpr35 fl/fl) or those lacking GPR35 on a subset of immune cells called macrophages (Gpr35 delMO).

Deletion of GPR35 in macrophages significantly reduced tumor growth in two ways; first, by directly limiting the proliferation of epithelial cells and second, by affecting the ability of macrophage to create a vascularized (i.e. permessive) microenvironment.

These findings highlight a potential role for GPR35 in PSC and cholangiocarcinoma.

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