Prognostic significance of matrix metalloproteinases 2 and 9 in bladder cancer
Papathoma, A.S.; Petraki, C.; Grigorakis, A.; Papakonstantinou, H.; Karavana, V.; Stefanakis, S.; Sotsiou, F.; Pintzas, A.
Anticancer Research 20(3b): 2009-2013
2000
ISSN/ISBN: 0250-7005 PMID: 10928143 Document Number: 518958
Background: The levels of matrix metalloproteinases MMP-2 and MMP-9 (type IV collagenases), which degrade the extracellular matrix of the basement membrane, were evaluated as prognostic indicators of metastasis in urothelial carcinoma. Materials and methods: Quantitative gel zymography and immunohistochemistry were used and compared with clinical data at the follow-up period of 36 months. Results: Zymographical analysis of the levels of MMP-9 and active MMP-2 showed a statistically significant increase with tumor grade and invasiveness. This correlation was confirmed by immunohistochemical analysis of MMP-9 expression. However, the correlation between the levels of both gelatinases with recurrence in superficial tumours or progression in invasive tumours was not statistically significant. Conclusion: MMPs may have an important role in the invasion mechanism of urothelial cancer and could be useful prognostic markers for patients with bladder carcinoma. The relationship between MMP-2 and MMP-9 expression and the metastatic potential of bladder carcinoma needs further evaluation in subsequent clinical studies.