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.
