Article ID Journal Published Year Pages File Type
2145110 Matrix Biology 2008 5 Pages PDF
Abstract
Over-expression of matrilysin (MMP-7) is predominantly associated with epithelial (pre)malignant cells. In the present study MMP-7 expression is also found in endothelial cells in various human cancer types. Endothelial MMP-7 was associated with CD34 and/or CD105 expression. These immunohistochemical data were confirmed by RT-PCR on VEGF-stimulated endothelial cells. In addition, MMP-7 was also identified in sprouting endothelial cells in vitro. The potential clinical relevance of endothelial MMP-7 was assessed for cervical cancer patients by evaluating the association with overall survival. In contrast to MMP-7 in malignant epithelial cells, MMP-7 expression in endothelial cells showed a significant association with poor survival (LR 5.12, P = 0.02, n = 30). Our data suggest that MMP-7 is involved in tumor angiogenesis, thereby contributing to malignant growth and hence associated with decreased survival.
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Life Sciences Biochemistry, Genetics and Molecular Biology Cancer Research
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