Chemokine (C-X-C Motif) Ligand 12 Is Associated with Gallbladder Carcinoma Progression and Is a Novel Independent Poor Prognostic Factor

Abstract

Our results indicate that GBC cells express both CXCL12 and its receptor CXCR4, and CXCL12 may have a role in GBC progression through an autocrine mechanism. In addition, CXCL12 is a novel independent poor prognostic factor in patients with GBCs. Thus, targeting CXCL12 and CXCR4 may provide a novel therapeutic strategy for GBC treatment.