PIP: Proteins and Enzymes

The androgen and prolactin responsive prolactin-inducible protein (PIP), also known as Gross cystic disease fluid protein (GCDFP-15) is expressed in benign and malignant human breast tumors and in such normal exocrine organs as sweat, salivary and lacrimal glands. The hormonally responsive PIP gene is expressed in benign and malignant breast tumor tissues and in such normal exocrine organs as sweat, salivary, and lacrimal glands. The cells within the body that produce PIP/GCDFP 15 appear to be restricted primarily to those with apocrine function. Studies have found PIP to be a highly specific and sensitive marker for breast cancer.