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.