Histidine rich glycoprotein and cancer: a multi-faceted relationship.

A better understanding of the interplay between the tumor environment, the immune system, and hemostatic apparatus is essential to effectively improve cancer treatment. Histidine-rich glycoprotein (HRG) is an abundant plasma protein with a wide array of functions. HRG has the ability to bind multiple ligands thereby modulating immunity, cell adhesion, angiogenesis, and thrombosis. Many of these functions are involved in tumor progression and antitumor response. We outline current data on HRG as an important potential player and as a potential future target for cancer therapy.