Expressions of MMP-2, MMP-9 and VEGF are Closely Linked to Growth, Invasion, Metastasis and Angiogenesis of Gastric Carcinoma

Abstract

Background: Gastric carcinoma is still a major leading cause of cancer death in East Asia. Since angiogenesis is a necessary condition for invasion and metastasis, its regulation is of essential significance. Materials and Methods: Expressions of MMP-2, MMP-9 and VEGF were examined with microarray of gastric carcinoma tissue samples (n=249) by immunostaining. In addition, microvessel density (MVD) was assessed after labelling with the anti-CD34 antibody. Data were cross-compared with clinicopathological parameters of tumors, including PTEN expression. Results: Expressions of MMP-2, MMP-9 and VEGF were positively correlated with tumour size, depth of invasion, lymphatic and venous invasion, lymph node metastasis, UICC staging and MVD of gastric carcinomas (p<0.05). VEGF expression was positively linked with levels of MMP-2 and MMP-9 (p<0.05), but negatively with PTEN (p<0.05). The latter was also inversely associated with the MVD in gastric carcinomas (p<0.05). Conclusion: MMP-2, MMP-9 and VEGF largely contribute to the angiogenesis and progression of gastric carcinomas. PTEN might inhibit the processes by down-regulating VEGF expression. These parameters should be regarded as good markers to indicate pathobiological behaviours of gastric carcinomas.