Expression of matrix metalloproteinase 9 in pancreatic ductal carcinoma is associated with tumor metastasis formation

Folia Histochem Cytobiol. 2007;45(1):37-40.

Abstract

The objective of the current study was to assess the expression of matrix metalloproteinase 9 (MMP-9) in pancreatic ductal carcinoma and to examine its correlation with chosen clinico-anatomical parameters. The study group consisted of 36 patients with pancreatic ductal carcinoma. Tumors were stained using immunohistochemical method (NCL -MMP-9, Novocastra). No correlation was found between tumor MMP-9 expression and age, gender or grade of histological malignancy. However, statistical analysis revealed a relationship between tumor MMP-9 expression and histological type (adenocarcinoma mucinosum) of pancreatic carcinoma. The expression was strongly correlated with lymph node involvement and occurrence of distant metastases (p<0.00001). The results indicate a correlation between the expression of MMP-9 in pancreatic ductal carcinoma and worse prognosis (shown by lymph node involvement and distant metastases).

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Age Factors
  • Aged
  • Carcinoma, Pancreatic Ductal / enzymology
  • Carcinoma, Pancreatic Ductal / pathology*
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Immunohistochemistry
  • Lymph Nodes / metabolism
  • Lymphatic Metastasis
  • Male
  • Matrix Metalloproteinase 9 / metabolism*
  • Middle Aged
  • Pancreatic Neoplasms / enzymology
  • Pancreatic Neoplasms / pathology*
  • Prognosis

Substances

  • Matrix Metalloproteinase 9