A-SMase expression correlates inversely with tumour stage in human melanoma biopsies.In melanoma, expression of acid sphingomyelinase decreases with tumor progression in both humans and mice. A-SMase expression correlates inversely with tumour stage in human melanoma biopsies.
The SMase family includes different isoenzymes mainly distinguished by their optimal pH:
-Acid sphingomyelinase (aSMase):Encoded by the gene SMPD1.Functions optimally at acidic pH.
-Neutral sphingomyelinases (nSMases):(nSMase1, nSMase2, nSMase3) encoded by genes SMPD2, SMPD3.
-Alkaline sphingomyelinases: typically found in the intestinal tract.
aSMase expression or activity is reduced compared to normal tissue.
Lower aSMase activity can lead to decreased ceramide generation, potentially allowing cancer cells to avoid apoptosis.
In many cancer-related studies where the term “SMase” is used without further specification, the discussion may center on aSMase because of its link to ceramide production and apoptosis under stress conditions (such as chemotherapy or radiotherapy).
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