Prognostic impact of matrix metalloproteinase 2 (MMP-2) and matrix metalloproteinase 9 (MMP-9) in Egyptian breast cancer patients

• DOI: 10.1177/03946320241304911
• Publication Date: 2024-12-07T07:03:51Z
• Authors: Fayrouz A Fouad; Mohamed A Khali; Inas Moaz; Hossam Elmasry; Nada Gheta; Asala Abdeen; Mariam Tantawi; Ganna Elkholy; Shaimaa Rihan; Mahmoud M Kamel; Ayman EL-Meghawry...; Youssef AS Abdel-...; Abdallah M Gameel

This study aims to investigate the diagnostic and prognostic relevance of MMP-2 and MMP-9 as biomarkers for breast cancer, as well as their association with clinicopathological factors. Breast cancer is a leading contributor to cancer-related deaths among women worldwide. The discovery of biomarkers is crucial for early diagnosis, outcome prediction, and effective treatment. Matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) play a significant role in various physiological and pathological activities, including development, tissue repair, inflammation, cancer spread, and metastasis. While the prognostic significance of MMP-2 and MMP-9 levels in breast cancer has been studied, the findings remain inconclusive. Participants were divided into three groups, with each group consisting of 62 individuals: Group I comprised healthy controls, Group II consisted of newly diagnosed breast cancer patients (stage I-III), and Group III included patients with metastatic breast cancer. Levels of MMP-2 and MMP-9 were evaluated in these groups using the ELISA method. An evident increase in MMP-2 and MMP-9 levels was noted when comparing the control group with both the breast cancer and metastatic groups. Furthermore, a notable correlation was identified between serum MMP-9 levels and the pathological diagnosis of breast cancer ( P < 0.001) as well as tumor size ( P < 0.01). MMP-2 and MMP-9 have emerged as promising biomarkers for breast cancer, with MMP-9 specifically associated with disease prognosis. Continued investigation into the anti-tumor mechanisms of MMPs may yield significant advancements in the development of targeted therapeutic strategies for the management of breast cancer.