Role of cystatin C in urogenital malignancy

Urogenital malignancy accounts for one of the major causes of cancer-related deaths globally. Numerous studies have investigated novel molecular markers in the blood circulation, tumor tissue, or urine in order to assist in the clinical identification of tumors at early stages, predict the response of therapeutic strategies, and give accurate prognosis assessment. As an endogenous inhibitor of lysosomal cysteine proteinases, cystatin C plays an integral role in diverse processes. A substantial number of studies have indicated that it may be such a potential promising biomarker. Therefore, this review was intended to provide a detailed overview of the role of cystatin C in urogenital malignancy.