Matrix metalloproteinases and their inhibitors in gastric cancer.
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ABSTRACT: BACKGROUND: The matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) and tissue inhibitors of matrix metalloproteinases (TIMPs) are strongly implicated in tumour invasion and metastasis. AIMS: To investigate the presence of individual MMPs and TIMPs in gastric cancer. METHODS: The presence of MMP-1, MMP-2, MMP-3, MMP-9, TIMP-1, and TIMP-2 was identified in a group of gastric cancers (n=74) by immunohistochemistry using monoclonal antibodies. These antibodies were effective on formalin fixed, paraffin wax embedded sections. RESULTS: A large proportion (94%) of gastric cancers contained MMP-2; MMP-1 and MMP-9 were also detected in 73% and 70% of tumours respectively. MMP-3 was only present in 27% of tumours. MMP-1 and MMP-9 were found predominantly in intestinal type tumours. TIMP-1 and TIMP-2 were identified in 41% and 57% of tumours respectively. Immunoreactivity for individual MMPs or TIMPs was not identified in normal stomach. CONCLUSIONS: This study shows the presence of matrix metalloproteinases, particularly MMP-2, and TIMPs in stomach cancer. Antibodies which are effective in formalin fixed, paraffin wax embedded sections are useful for the identification of MMPs and TIMPs in diagnostic specimens.
SUBMITTER: Murray GI
PROVIDER: S-EPMC1727341 | biostudies-other | 1998 Dec
REPOSITORIES: biostudies-other
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