Matrix Metalloproteinase-9 (MMP-9) polymorphisms in patients with cutaneous malignant melanoma

Skin Malignant Melanoma and Matrix Metalloproteinases: Promising Links to Efficient Therapies

Skin malignant melanoma (MM) is one of the most frequent and aggressive neoplasia worldwide. Its associated high mortality rates are mostly due to its metastases, while diagnosis and treatment of MM in its early stages is of favorable prognostic. Even skin superficial MMs at incipient local stages can already present with lymph node invasion and distant metastases. Therefore, knowledge of the controllable risk factors and pathogenic mechanisms of MM development, spreading, and metastatic pattern, as well as early diagnosis, are essential to decrease the high mortality rates associated with cutaneous malignant melanoma. Genetic factors are incriminated, although lifetime-acquired genetic mutations appear to be even more frequently involved in the development of MM. Skin melanocytes divide only twice per year and have time to accumulate genetic mutations as a consequence of environmental aggressive factors, such as UV exposure. In the search for more promising therapies, matrix metalloproteinases have become of significant interest, such as MMP-1, MMP-2, MMP-9, and MMP-13, which have been linked to more aggressive forms of cancer and earlier metastases. Therefore, the development of specific synthetic inhibitors of MMP secretion or activity could represent a more promising and effective approach to the personalized treatment of MM patients.

MMP1, MMP9, MMP11 and MMP13 in melanoma and its metastasis - key points in understanding the mechanisms and celerity of tumor dissemination

BACKGROUND

Matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)1, MMP9, MMP11, and MMP13 are overexpressed in malignant melanoma (MM), being associated with tumor invasive phase, metastases, and more aggressive neoplastic phenotypes.

AIM

The main objective of the current study was to correlate the expression of the MMPs with the evolution of MM toward distant metastasis.

PATIENTS, MATERIALS AND METHODS

We designed a retrospective cohort study, including 13 patients with metastatic MM. Data concerning age, sex, localization of the primary lesion and metastasis, and histological and immunohistochemical features (intensity of expression and percent of positive cells for MMPs) were statistically processed.

RESULTS

The time between the diagnosis of primitive melanoma and the diagnosis of metastasis ranged between 0 and 73 months, with a mean value of 18.3 months. The metastases rich in MMP1- and MMP9-positive cells occurred earlier than the metastases with low levels of positive cells. The mean period until metastasis was shorter for the MMP1-expressing tumors than the ones without MMP1 expression. MMP13 expression in the tumor and its metastasis was significantly linked with the time until the metastasis occurrence.

CONCLUSIONS

This study emphasizes the roles of MMP1, MMP9, and MMP13 in the process of metastasis in melanoma and the opportunity to use them as therapeutic targets and surveillance molecules.

The Role of the Matrix Metalloproteinase-9 Gene in Tumor Development and Metastasis: A Narrative Review

Matrix metalloproteinase-9 (MMP-9) is one of the widely studied enzymes of the extracellular matrix which can degrade various matrix biomolecules. The gene coding for this enzyme has been found to be associated with various multifactorial diseases, including cancer. More specifically, the expression of MMP-9 and polymorphisms of its gene have been found to be correlated with the formation and the invasiveness of different types of cancer. Hence, the latter gene can potentially be used both as a clinical genetic marker and a possible target in anticancer therapy. The present minireview explores the role of the MMP-9 gene in the process of tumor formation, growth, and metastasis and presents an overview of the polymorphisms of the gene associated with cancer as well as its regulation mechanisms, to provide an insight into the potential clinical applications. Nevertheless, further clinical trials and research are still required to reach more valuable conclusions for the clinical implications of the recent findings.

Vascular Derived ECM Improves Therapeutic Index of BMP-2 and Drives Vascularized Bone Regeneration

Vascularized osteogenesis is essential for successful bone regeneration, yet its realization during large size bone defect healing remains challenging due to the difficulty to couple multiple biological processes. Herein, harnessing the intrinsic angiogenic potential of vascular derived extracellular matrix (vECM) and its specific affinity to growth factors, a vECM/GelMA based hybrid hydrogel delivery system is constructed to achieve optimized bone morphogenetic protein-2 (BMP-2) therapeutic index and provide intrinsic angiogenic induction during bone healing. The incorporation of vECM not only effectively regulates BMP-2 kinetics to match the bone healing timeframe, but also promotes angiogenesis both in vitro and in vivo. In vivo results also show that vECM-mediated BMP-2 release remarkably enhances vascularized bone formation for critical size bone defects. In particular, blood vessel ingrowth stained with CD31 marker in the defect area is substantially encouraged over the course of healing, suggesting incorporation of vECM served roles in both angiogenesis and osteogenesis. Thus, the authors' study exemplifies that affinity of growth factor towards ECM may be a promising strategy to be leveraged to develop sophisticated delivery systems endowed with desirable properties for regenerative medicine applications.

Melanoma Mediated Disruption of Brain Endothelial Barrier Integrity Is Not Prevented by the Inhibition of Matrix Metalloproteinases and Proteases

We have previously shown that human melanoma cells rapidly decrease human brain endothelial barrier strength. Our findings showed a fast mechanism of melanoma mediated barrier disruption, which was localised to the paracellular junctions of the brain endothelial cells. Melanoma cells are known to release molecules which cleave the surrounding matrix and allow traversal within and out of their metastatic niche. Enzymatic families, such as matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) and proteases are heavily implicated in this process and their complex nature in vivo makes them an intriguing family to assess in melanoma metastasis. Herein, we assessed the expression of MMPs and other proteases in melanoma conditioned media. Our results showed evidence of a high expression of MMP-2, but not MMP-1, -3 or -9. Other proteases including Cathepsins D and B were also detected. Recombinant MMP-2 was added to the apical face of brain endothelial cells (hCMVECs), to measure the change in barrier integrity using biosensor technology. Surprisingly, this showed no decrease in barrier strength. The addition of potent MMP inhibitors (batimastat, marimastat, ONO4817) and other protease inhibitors (such as aprotinin, Pefabloc SC and bestatin) to the brain endothelial cells, in the presence of various melanoma lines, showed no reduction in the melanoma mediated barrier disruption. The inhibitors batimastat, Pefabloc SC, antipain and bestatin alone decreased the barrier strength. These results suggest that although some MMPs and proteases are released by melanoma cells, there is no direct evidence that they are substantially involved in the initial melanoma-mediated disruption of the brain endothelium.

Predictive Significance of Two MMP-9 Promoter Polymorphisms and Acetylated c-Jun Transcription Factor for Papillary Thyroid Carcinoma Advancement

Papillary thyroid carcinoma represents a challenge from a prognostic standpoint. Molecular alterations responsible for PTC advancement include MMP-9 genetic promoter polymorphisms that bind transcription factors with varying degrees of affinity and, hence, constitute a predisposition for MMP-9 expression. We examined how two promoter polymorphisms (the -1562 C/T transition and -131 (CA)n tandem repeats) as well as levels of the c-Jun transcription factor and its modified form acetylated at Lys271 influence MMP-9 expression and PTC progression. A significant proportion of PTC samples were heterozygous for the (CA)n tandem repeat number, had a transcription-promoting T allele at -1562, and expressed high levels of c-Jun, acetylated c-Jun, and MMP-9 protein. The T allele at the -1562 position accompanied the elevated MMP-9 protein expression, while high acetylated c-Jun levels accompanied the high MMP-9 protein levels on mRNA. The -1562 C/T transition, MMP-9, and acetylated c-Jun were associated with the presence of extra-thyroid invasion and degree of tumor infiltration, while the T allele and acetylated c-Jun also correlated with tumor stage. We conclude that the -1562 MMP-9 polymorphism and levels of acetylated c-Jun affect PTC progression via modulation of MMP-9 levels. Genotyping the MMP-9 at -1562 and estimating the levels of MMP-9 and acetylated c-Jun in PTC may prove beneficial in identifying high-risk patients.

Association of single nucleotide polymorphisms in the CD209, MMP9, TNFA and IFNG genes with susceptibility to Japanese encephalitis in children from North India

Japanese encephalitis (JE), an acute encephalitis syndrome disease caused by infection with JE virus (JEV), is an important mosquito borne disease in developing countries. The clinical outcomes of JEV infection show inter individual differences. Only in a minor percent of the infected subjects, the disease progresses into acute encephalitis syndrome. Single nucleotide polymorphisms in the host immune response related genes are known to affect susceptibility to JE. In the present study, 238 JE cases and 405 healthy controls (HCs) without any known history of encephalitis were investigated for SNPs in the CD209 MX1, TLR3, MMP9, TNFA and IFNG genes which are important in the immune response against JEV by PCR based methods. The results revealed higher frequencies of heterozygous genotypes of CD209 rs4804803, MMP9 rs17576, TNFA rs1800629 and IFNG rs2430561 in JE cases compared to HCs. These SNPs were associated with JE in an over-dominant genetic model (Odds ratio with 95% CI 1.51 (1.09-2.10) for CD209 rs4804803, 1.52 (1.09-2.11) for MMP9 rs17576, and 1.55 (1.12-2.15) for IFNG rs2430561). The association of G/A genotype of TNFA rs1800629 with JE was confirmed in a larger sample size. The results suggest the association of CD209 rs4804803, MMP9 rs17576, IFNG rs2430561 and TNFA rs1800629 polymorphisms with susceptibility to JE.

Understanding the genetics of intracranial aneurysms: A primer

The genetics of intracranial aneurysms is complex. Much work has been done looking at the extracellular matrix surrounding cerebral vasculature as well as the role of matrix metalloproteinases. This comprehensive review summarizes what is known to date about the important genetic components that predispose to aneurysm formation and critically discusses the published findings. We discuss promising pre-clinical models of aneurysm formation and subarachnoid hemorrhage, and highlight avenues for future discovery, while considering limitations in the research to date. This review will further serve as a comprehensive reference guide to understand the genetic underpinnings for aneurysm pathophysiology and act as a primer for further investigation.

Melanoma Plasticity: Promoter of Metastasis and Resistance to Therapy

Melanoma is the deadliest form of skin cancer. Although targeted therapies and immunotherapies have revolutionized the treatment of metastatic melanoma, most patients are not cured. Therapy resistance remains a significant clinical challenge. Melanoma comprises phenotypically distinct subpopulations of cells, exhibiting distinct gene signatures leading to tumor heterogeneity and favoring therapeutic resistance. Cellular plasticity in melanoma is referred to as phenotype switching. Regardless of their genomic classification, melanomas switch from a proliferative and differentiated phenotype to an invasive, dedifferentiated and often therapy-resistant state. In this review we discuss potential mechanisms underpinning melanoma phenotype switching, how this cellular plasticity contributes to resistance to both targeted therapies and immunotherapies. Finally, we highlight novel strategies to target plasticity and their potential clinical impact in melanoma.

A Review of Epidemiology and Cancer Biology of Malignant Melanoma

Malignant melanoma is a neoplasm originating in the melanocytes in the skin. Although malignant melanoma is the third most common cutaneous cancer, it is recognized as the main cause of skin cancer-related mortality, and its incidence is rising. The natural history of malignant melanoma involves an inconsistent and insidious skin cancer with great metastatic potential. Increased ultra-violet (UV) skin exposure is undoubtedly the greatest risk factor for developing cutaneous melanoma; however, a plethora of risk factors are now recognized as causative. Moreover, modern oncology now considers melanoma proliferation a complex, multifactorial process with a combination of genetic, epigenetic, and environmental factors all known to be contributory to tumorgenesis. Herein, we wish to outline the epidemiological, molecular, and biological processes responsible for driving malignant melanoma proliferation.

The phosphorylation of CD147 by Fyn plays a critical role for melanoma cells growth and metastasis

CD147, also known as extracellular matrix metalloproteinase inducer (EMMPRIN), is a transmembrane glycoprotein that is highly expressed in tumor cells, particularly melanoma cells, and plays critical roles in tumor cell metastasis through the regulation of matrix metalloprotease (MMP) expression. In this study, we identified Fyn as a novel interacting protein of CD147. Fyn is a member of the Src family of nonreceptor tyrosine kinases that regulates diverse physiological processes, such as T lymphocyte differentiation, through the TCR signaling pathway. Our findings demonstrated that Fyn directly phosphorylates CD147 at Y140 and Y183. Two phosphospecific antibodies against Y140 and Y183 were developed to validate the phosphorylation of CD147 by Fyn. Moreover, the CD147-FF (Y140F/Y183F) mutation impaired the interaction between CD147 and GnT-V, leading to decreased CD147 glycosylation and membrane recruitment. In addition, CD147-FF significantly blocked MMP-9 expression as well as cell migration. Moreover, we found that Fyn is overexpressed in clinical melanoma tissues as well as in melanoma cell lines. Knockdown of Fyn expression markedly attenuated the malignant phenotype of melanoma cells in vitro and in vivo through downregulation of CD147 phosphorylation, indicating that Fyn/CD147 is a potential target molecule in melanoma treatment. Finally, through virtual screening, we identified amodiaquine as a potential inhibitor targeting the Fyn/CD147 axis. Amodiaquine treatment dramatically inhibited the phosphorylation of CD147 by Fyn, thus attenuating melanoma cell growth and invasion in vitro and in vivo, suggesting that amodiaquine is a promising inhibitor for melanoma treatment.

Salmonella-Based Targeted Cancer Therapy: Updates on A Promising and Innovative Tumor Immunotherapeutic Strategy

Presently, cancer is one of the leading causes of death in the world, primarily due to tumor heterogeneity associated with high-grade malignancy. Tumor heterogeneity poses a tremendous challenge, especially with the emergence of resistance not only to chemo- and radiation- therapies, but also to immunotherapy using monoclonal antibodies. The use of Salmonella, as a highly selective and penetrative antitumor agent, has shown convincing results, thus meriting further investigation. In this review, the mechanisms used by Salmonella in combating cancer are carefully explained. In essence, Salmonella overcomes the suppressive nature of the tumor microenvironment and coaxes the activation of tumor-specific immune cells to induce cell death by apoptosis and autophagy. Furthermore, Salmonella treatment suppresses tumor aggressive behavior via inhibition of angiogenesis and delay of metastatic activity. Thus, harnessing the natural potential of Salmonella in eliminating tumors will provide an avenue for the development of a promising micro-based therapeutic agent that could be further enhanced to address a wide range of tumor types.

CD147 Is a Novel Chemotherapy or Prevention Target in Melanoma

CD147, also named as BSG, was first identified from F9 embryonal carcinoma cells (Miyauchi et al., 1990) and the human BSG locus on chromosome 19p13.3 containing 10 exons (Belton et al., 2008; Kaname et al., 1993; Liao et al., 2011), which encodes four alternatively spliced transcripts:CD147/Bsg-1,2,3,4 (Kaname et al., 1993; Liao et al., 2011). Bsg-1 has three Ig-like domains (CD147/Bsg-1) (Hanna et al., 2003; Ochrietor et al., 2003), while CD147/Bsg-3,4 contains a single Ig-like domain (Belton et al., 2008; Liao et al., 2011). Evidence shows that CD147/Bsg-2 is the most abundant and best characterized splice product, which contains two Ig-like domains (Weidle et al., 2010). Analysis of amino acids showed that CD147 contains a single-chain type I transmembrane domain composed of a 21-amino acid signal sequence, an extracellular domain consisting of 186 amino acids with two Ig-like domains and a cytoplasmic domain of 41 residues (Kanekura et al., 2010; Yurchenko et al., 2005). There are three glycosylation sites at three conserved asparagine (Asn 44, 152, and 186) in the CD147 N-terminal domain (Fadool et al., 1993; Tang et al., 2004; Yu et al., 2006), which could explain the molecular mass of CD147 shifts from a predicted molecular weight of about 27 kDa to 40-65 kDa with Western blotting. Inhibition of glycosylation by specific inhibitors showed that on carbohydrate side groups bearing β-1,6-branched, polylactosamine-type sugars, fucosylations are the major glycosylation type in N-glycosylation of CD147 (Ni et al., 2014; Riethdorf et al., 2006; Tang et al., 2004). In addition, N-glycosylation of CD147 has been identified as low glycosylated (approximately 32 kDa) or high glycosylated (approximately 45-65 kDa). The fully glycosylated mature CD147 (high-glycosylated CD147) is translocated to the plasma membrane, while low-glycosylated CD147 is the precursor of high-glycosylated CD147 in the endoplasmic reticulum, which requires additional modification in the Golgi prior to being expressed on the cell surface; high levels of glycosylation are a primary biochemical property of CD147 (Jia et al., 2006; Jiang et al., 2014; Ni et al., 2014; Tang et al., 2004).

MMP-9-1562 C/T single nucleotide polymorphism associates with increased MMP-9 level and activity during papillary thyroid carcinoma progression

Papillary thyroid carcinoma (PTC), a common form of thyroid malignancy, displays significant variations in clinical features and outcome. The malignant transformation of the thyroid is driven by altered expression of many matrix-modulating enzymes, including matrix metalloproteinase-9 (MMP-9). A single nucleotide polymorphism in its promotor (-1562 C/T) is suspected to cause overexpression of MMP-9, which in turn contributes to development of a tumour unfavourable phenotype. The aim of this study was to investigate the impact of MMP-9 promotor genotype on MMP-9 expression in PTC samples, and to assess its value as a possible risk factor for developing PTC or its aggressive phenotype. A total of 105 PTC patients and 43 healthy controls were genotyped by the polymerase chain reaction-restriction fragment length polymorphism (PCR-RFLP) method. In order to estimate MMP-9 expression, PTC tissue sections were stained immunohistochemically. Statistical analysis showed that PTC cases and controls did not differ significantly in genotype frequencies (OR = 2.27, CI = 0.854-6.022). In PTC samples, the presence of the T allele was accompanied by elevated MMP-9 expression (p = 0.047) as well as a higher risk of developing extrathyroid extensions (p = 0.037) and high TNM stages (p = 0.009). Moreover, we observed overexpression of MMP-9 in cases presenting with extrathyroid invasion (p = 0.001), lymph node metastasis (p = 0.028), large tumour size (p = 0.031) and advanced stage (p = 0.005) compared to indolent tumours, along with enhanced enzymatic activity demonstrated by in situ zymography. Data suggests that MMP-9 (-1562 C/T) does not facilitate predisposition for PTC but affects the disease course by modulating MMP-9 expression. Genotyping MMP-9 provides important information which may prove beneficial in risk stratification of PTC patients.

Rapid Mobilization Reveals a Highly Engraftable Hematopoietic Stem Cell

Hematopoietic stem cell transplantation is a potential curative therapy for malignant and nonmalignant diseases. Improving the efficiency of stem cell collection and the quality of the cells acquired can broaden the donor pool and improve patient outcomes. We developed a rapid stem cell mobilization regimen utilizing a unique CXCR2 agonist, GROβ, and the CXCR4 antagonist AMD3100. A single injection of both agents resulted in stem cell mobilization peaking within 15 min that was equivalent in magnitude to a standard multi-day regimen of granulocyte colony-stimulating factor (G-CSF). Mechanistic studies determined that rapid mobilization results from synergistic signaling on neutrophils, resulting in enhanced MMP-9 release, and unexpectedly revealed genetic polymorphisms in MMP-9 that alter activity. This mobilization regimen results in preferential trafficking of stem cells that demonstrate a higher engraftment efficiency than those mobilized by G-CSF. Our studies suggest a potential new strategy for the rapid collection of an improved hematopoietic graft.

Matrix metalloproteinase 9 gene polymorphisms are associated with a multiple family history of gastric cancer

BACKGROUND

A family history of gastric cancer (GC) is a well-known risk factor of GC. Genetic variations in genes of matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) and tissue inhibitors of metalloproteinases (TIMPs) have been related to the risk of GC, but their association with familial background is not clear. We investigated whether individuals with a multiple family history of GC have more risk genotypes of MMP/TIMP genes.

METHODS

We genotyped ten common functional polymorphisms of MMP/TIMP genes in 4427 individuals aged 35-69 years without a history of GC who were enrolled in the Japan Multi-institutional Collaborative Cohort Study. Individuals who have two or more first-degree relatives (parents and siblings) with GC were categorized as having a multiple family history. Odds ratios (ORs) for multiple family history compared with no family history were calculated.

RESULTS

MMP9 279QQ (rs17576) was more frequently observed in individuals whose both parents had a history of GC (n = 23) and in individuals for whom one parent and their sibling(s) had a history of GC (n = 36) compared with those with no family history (n = 3816) [30.4 % vs 11.6 %, OR 4.34, 95 % confidence interval (CI) 1.45-13.03 and 16.7 % vs 11.6 %, OR 2.26, 95 % CI 0.81-6.27 after adjustment for age, sex, and current smoking]. The population attributable fraction was 38.1 %. The haplotype MMP9-1562C/279Q/668Q was more frequently observed in individuals whose both parents had a history of GC and in individuals for whom one parent and their sibling(s) had a history of GC compared with those with no family history (OR 3.35, 95 % CI 0.75-14.96 and OR 3.51, 95 % CI 1.35-9.15 respectively).

CONCLUSIONS

MMP9 polymorphisms were associated with a multiple family history of GC. Screening for these genotypes together with familial background may help us to identify individuals at an increased risk of GC.

Matrix metalloproteinase (MMP) -2, -7 and -9 promoter polymorphisms in colorectal cancer in ethnic Kashmiri population - A case-control study and a mini review

Matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) are proteolytic enzymes that play a pivotal role in the transformation and progression of tumors at all stages, especially during the invasion and metastasis. The aim of this study was to determine the genetic association of MMP2, MMP7 and MMP9 promoter polymorphisms with colorectal cancer (CRC) susceptibility and development risk in ethnic Kashmiri population. The genotype frequencies of MMP2-1306C/T, MMP7-181A/G and MMP9-1562C/T SNPs were compared between 142 CRC patients and 184 healthy controls by using PCR-RFLP method. The association between all the three MMP promoter polymorphisms and the modulation of risk of CRC was found to be significant (p≤0.05). The heterozygous genotype (CT) of MMP2-1306C/T SNP and variant genotype (GG) of MMP7-181A/G SNP showed a significant association with decreased risk for the development of CRC [OR, 0.61 (95%CI, 0.37-1.01); p=0.05 and OR, 0.43 (95%CI, 0.20-0.90); p=0.02, respectively] whereas the heterozygous genotype (CT) of MMP9-1562C/T SNP showed a significant association with increased risk for the development of colorectal cancer [OR, 1.88 (95%CI, 1.11-3.18); p=0.02]. Further, the less common MMP9-1562T allele was found to be significantly associated with an increased risk of colorectal cancer [OR, 1.74 (95%CI, 1.15-2.62); p=0.007]. Our results suggest that these MMP2, MMP7 and MMP9 promoter polymorphisms play a role as one of the key modulators of the risk of developing colorectal cancer in Kashmiri population.

A meta-analysis of MMP-9 promoter -1562 C/T polymorphism on susceptibility of chronic periodontitis

Background

Although many studies have focused on the association of the MMP-9 promoter −1562 C/T polymorphism with the susceptibility and/or severity of chronic periodontitis (CP), results have been inconsistent. Therefore, a meta-analysis of all eligible studies was performed to derive a more precise estimation of the association between this polymorphism and CP risk.

Methods

All relevant studies were identified through a database search in PubMed, Medline, and Web of Science. All the full-text studies with appropriate analytical design, published in English, which evaluated the association of MMP-9 promoter −1562C/T polymorphism with CP risk using validated genotyping methods, and with non-duplicated data were selected for this study. A fixed-effect model was used to calculate pooled ORs in the absence of heterogeneity across included trials (P > 0.1 and I² < 50 %), otherwise the random-effect model was applied.

Results

In an overall meta-analysis, pooled ORs revealed that T variant in the MMP-9 promoter −1562 C/T polymorphism was associated with a significantly decreased risk for CP under all comparison models. In subgroup analyses by ethnicity, pooled ORs showed that a significant association of the MMP-9 promoter −1562 C/T polymorphism with CP risk was only detected in Caucasians and Asians but not in mixed population. In the subgroup analysis by severity of CP, pooled ORs indicated that T allele of the MMP-9 promoter −1562 C/T polymorphism was associated with decreased susceptibility to severe CP while there was no significant association between this polymorphism and moderate CP.

Conclusions

Our meta-analysis showed that T allele in the MMP-9 promoter −1562 C/T polymorphism might be a protective factor for CP, especially in Caucasians and Asians. Moreover, there was a significant association of the MMP-9 promoter −1562 C/T polymorphism with decreased susceptibility to severe CP, while the allelic and/or genotype distributions of this polymorphism were not associated with moderate CP.

Electronic supplementary material

The online version of this article (doi:10.1186/s40064-016-2135-3) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.

Association of MMP-9 gene polymorphisms with Behçet's disease risk

The human matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) are importantly involved in aneurysm formation. Since the clinical manifestations in Behçet disease (BD) include aneurysm formation among major symptoms, polymorphisms in MMP-9 might be associated with BD susceptibility. The aim of the current case-control study was to investigate the association of four single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in MMP-9 gene: -1562 C/T, 2003 G/A (R668Q), 836 A/G (Q279R) and 1721 C/G (R574P) with BD risk in the Tunisian population. The distribution of MMP-9 gene polymorphisms was analyzed by polymerase chain-reaction (PCR) and restriction fragment length polymorphism (RFLP) for 240 BD patients and 288 controls. Our study indicated that the MMP-9 -1562 C/T polymorphism (rs3918242) was not associated with BD risk. We found a significant association of the MMP-9 2003 G/A (rs17577) with an increased susceptibility to BD. However, the MMP-9 1721 C/G polymorphism (rs2250889) had a protective role against the development of BD. Subgroup analysis based on stratification by gender revealed that the MMP-9 2003 G/A polymorphism was associated with a highly significant BD risk in women's group (G vs. A: P=0.0000001). However, the MMP-9 836 A/G polymorphism had a protective role in men's group (G vs. A: P=0.00043). The MMP-9 1721 C/G polymorphism was associated with a protective effect in both men and women groups (CG+GG vs. CC: P=0.04 and P=0.0002, respectively). The haplotype analysis did not show any association with BD risk. A significant difference in the MMP-9 serum levels were observed in the patient subgroup with ocular lesions manifestations.

Association of the polymorphisms of MMP-9 and TIMP-3 genes with thoracic aortic dissection in Chinese Han population

AIM

Thoracic aortic dissection (TAD) is the most common life-threatening disorder, and a shifted balance of matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) and tissue inhibitors of metalloproteinases (TIMPs) is involved in TAD pathogenesis. The aim of this study was to evaluate the association of 4 single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in MMP-9 and TIMP-3 genes with TAD risk in Chinese Han population.

METHODS

A total of 206 Chinese patients with TAD and 180 controls were included in this study. Four SNPs (rs3918249, rs2274756, rs9609643 and rs8136803) were genotyped using high-throughput MALDI-TOF mass spectrometry. Allele and genotype association analyses were conducted using PLINK.

RESULTS

All the 4 SNPs resulted in Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium in patients and controls. The G allele frequency for the MMP-9 SNP rs2274756 was significantly higher in female TAD patients than in female controls (P=0.0099). Moreover, after adjusting for traditional cardiovascular risk factors (sex, age, hypertension, dyslipidemia, diabetes and smoking habit), the rs2274756 polymorphism (odds ratio: 0.30; 95% confidence interval: 0.11 to 0.79, P=0.015) resulted in an independent susceptibility factor for TAD in females. No associations were found between the other SNPs and TAD.

CONCLUSION

The results provide strong evidence for an association between MMP-9 SNP rs2274756 and female TAD risk in Chinese Han population.

Gene variants in angiogenesis and lymphangiogenesis and cutaneous melanoma progression

BACKGROUND

Angiogenesis and lymphangiogenesis are important in the progression of melanoma. We investigated associations between genetic variants in these pathways with sentinel lymph node (SLN) metastasis and mortality in 2 independent series of patients with melanoma.

METHODS

Participants at Moffitt Cancer Center were 552 patients, all Caucasian, with primary cutaneous melanoma referred for SLN biopsy. A total of 177 patients had SLN metastasis, among whom 60 died from melanoma. Associations between 238 single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNP) in 26 genes and SLN metastasis were estimated as ORs and 95% confidence intervals (CI) using logistic regression. Competing risk regression was used to estimate HRs and 95% CI for each SNP and melanoma-specific mortality. We attempted to replicate significant findings using data from a genome-wide association study comprising 1,115 patients with melanoma who were referred for SLN biopsy from MD Anderson Cancer Center (MDACC), among whom 189 patients had SLN metastasis and 92 patients died from melanoma.

RESULTS

In the Moffitt dataset, we observed significant associations in 18 SNPs with SLN metastasis and 17 SNPs with mortality. Multiple SNPs in COL18A1, EGF receptor (EGFR), FLT1, interleukin (IL)-10, platelet-derived growth factor D (PDGFD), PIK3CA, and toll-like receptor (TLR)-3 were associated with the risk of SLN metastasis and/or patient mortality. The MDACC data set replicated an association between mortality and rs2220377 in PDGFD. Furthermore, in a meta-analysis, 3 additional SNPs were significantly associated with SLN metastasis (EGFR rs723526 and TLR3 rs3775292) and melanoma-specific death (TLR3 rs7668666).

CONCLUSIONS

These findings suggest that genetic variation in angiogenesis and lymphangiogenesis contributes to regional nodal metastasis and progression of melanoma.

IMPACT

Additional research attempting to replicate these results is warranted.

The influence of functional polymorphisms in matrix metalloproteinase 9 on survival of breast cancer patients in a Chinese population

Matrix metalloproteinase 9 (MMP9) plays a critical role in cancer aggression, and its overexpression is associated with a poor prognosis in breast cancer. Because common genetic variants can alter the expression or function of MMPs, we hypothesized that potentially functional single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in the MMP9 gene may be associated with the survival of patients with invasive breast cancer. In this case-cohort follow-up study, a total of 245 breast cancer patients in southeast China were investigated, and five haplotype tagging SNPs (htSNPs) in the MMP9 gene were genotyped by using matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization mass spectrometry and polymerase chain reaction-restriction fragment length polymorphism methods. Disease-free survival (DFS) and distance disease-free survival (DDFS) analyses were used to identify the SNPs associated with prognosis and determine their interdependence with the recognized prognostic factors. We found that the MMP9 rs3787268 GA+AA genotypes were significantly associated with poor DFS and DDFS of patients with breast cancer (log-rank p-values 0.045 and 0.028, respectively), especially in some subgroups of patients. Multivariate Cox regression and stepwise COX regression analyses suggested that rs3787268 may be a candidate independent biomarker to predict breast cancer survival in this population. Further, among estrogen receptor (ER)+/epidermal growth receptor 2 (HER-2)- patients, the rs3787268 GA+AA genotypes and rs17577 GG genotype showed a locus-dosage effect between combined the genotypes and decreased survival (adjusted HR 2.59, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.29-5.19 and adjusted HR 3.25, 95% CI 1.39-7.58, respectively, for DFS and DDFS). Our results suggest that the polymorphisms in the MMP9 gene may be genetic modifiers for breast cancer prognosis in this Chinese population.

Influence of single nucleotide polymorphisms in the MMP1 promoter region on cutaneous melanoma progression

Recently, we reported on the associations of seven single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in the promoter region of MMP1 gene with susceptibility to cutaneous melanoma (CM). Considering the reported correlation between MMP1 expression and melanoma progression, we hypothesized that these promoter SNPs might affect CM progression and prognosis. In this study, we examined the associations of seven SNPs with overall survival, as well as six clinicopathological factors in 754 patients with CM. After adjustment for 11 covariates, we observed significant associations of the SNP -422A>T (rs475007) with ulceration status (P=0.012), primary tumor thickness (P=0.040), and anatomic site (P=0.030). We also observed significant associations of the SNP -755T>G (rs498186) with ulceration status (P=0.038) and anatomic site (P=0.003). Two SNPs, -839G>A and -519A>G, were marginally associated with primary tumor thickness, ulceration status, and anatomic site. Furthermore, the frequency of haplotype 2G-G-G-A-A-G-T was higher in patients with ulceration (odds ratio=2.18, 95% confidence interval: 1.08-4.40, P=0.030) compared with those without ulceration. However, we did not find significant associations of these SNPs with overall survival and other clinical factors. As primary tumor thickness and ulceration status are two important indicators of tumor progression and have significant associations with melanoma prognosis, our results suggested that these promoter SNPs in MMP1 might have potential effects on melanoma progression and prognosis by influencing related clinical factors.

Association of MMP8 gene variation with an increased risk of malignant melanoma

Matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) are implicated in the development of cancers including malignant melanoma (MM) and breast cancer. We tested the possible association of MMP1 and MMP8 gene variation with these two types of cancer. We genotyped 300 unselected patients with MM, 300 consecutive breast cancer cases, 300 controls for melanoma, and 300 controls for breast cancer (age-matched and sex-matched healthy adults with negative cancer family histories). Our study showed that the MMP8 gene rs11225395 polymorphism was associated with the risk of developing MM (odds ratio: 1.69; 95% confidence interval: 1.02-2.80; P=0.040) for the A/A genotype and 1.49 (95% confidence interval: 1.03-2.17; P=0.035) for the A/G genotype compared with the G/G genotype. The A allele was over-represented among MM cases compared with controls (odds ratio=1.54; P=0.017). In-vitro assays showed that the A allele had a higher promoter activity than the G allele in melanoma cells. No association was detected between this variant and breast cancer susceptibility. We found no strong association between MMP1 variation and the risk of MM or breast cancer. The finding of this study indicates an influence of MMP8 gene variation on melanoma susceptibility.

Vitamin D receptor polymorphisms in patients with cutaneous melanoma

The vitamin D receptor (VDR) gene has been associated with cancer risk, but only a few polymorphisms have been studied in relation to melanoma risk and the results have been inconsistent. We examined 38 VDR gene single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in a large international multicenter population-based case-control study of melanoma. Buccal DNAs were obtained from 1,207 people with incident multiple primary melanoma and 2,469 with incident single primary melanoma. SNPs with known or suspected impact on VDR activity, haplotype tagging SNPs with ≥ 10% minor allele frequency in Caucasians, and SNPs reported as significant in other association studies were examined. Logistic regression was used to calculate the relative risks conferred by the individual SNP. Eight of 38 SNPs in the promoter, coding, and 3' gene regions were individually significantly associated with multiple primary melanoma after adjusting for covariates. The estimated increase in risk for individuals who were homozygous for the minor allele ranged from 25 to 33% for six polymorphisms: rs10875712 (odds ratios [OR] 1.28; 95% confidence interval (CI), 1.01-1.62), rs4760674 (OR 1.33; 95% CI, 1.06-1.67), rs7139166 (OR 1.26; 95%CI, 1.02-1.56), rs4516035 (OR 1.25; 95%CI, 1.01-1.55), rs11168287 (OR 1.27; 95%CI, 1.03-1.57) and rs1544410 (OR 1.30; 95%CI, 1.04-1.63); for two polymorphisms, homozygous carriers had a decreased risk: rs7305032 (OR 0.81; 95%CI 0.65-1.02) and rs7965281 (OR, 0.78; 95%CI, 0.62-0.99). We recognize the potential false positive findings because of multiple comparisons; however, the eight significant SNPs in our study outnumbered the two significant tests expected to occur by chance. The VDR may play a role in melanomagenesis.

Impact of silencing MMP9 gene on the biological behaviors of trophoblasts

This study examined the effect of MMP9 gene on the biological behaviors of trophoblasts and explore the relation between MMP9 gene and the "superficial implantation of placenta". In vitro cultured trophoblasts (TEV-1 cells) were transfected with synthesized double-stranded MMP9 RNA (siRNA) by using lipofectamine2000™ technique and the expressions of MMP9 mRNA and protein and the growth and invasiveness of the TEV-1 cells were determined. Our results showed that siRNA transfection could significantly inhibit the expression of MMP9 gene in the TEV-1 cells and the growth and invasiveness of the TEV-1 cells transfected RNA was significantly reduced (P<0.01). We are led to conclude that silencing of MMP9 gene with siRNA can inhibit the growth and invasiveness of trophoblasts and increasing the expression of MMP9 might help prevent and treat preeclampsia.

Proteases in cutaneous malignant melanoma: relevance as biomarker and therapeutic target

Cutaneous malignant melanoma is the most aggressive skin cancer. It is also the most rapidly spreading cancer in terms of worldwide incidence. Although it is detected by simple inspection and can be relatively easily removed or treated, differential diagnosis to other melanocytic lesions, lack of prognostic markers, and no efficient treatment of advanced melanoma pose problems. Detection and targeting of proteases may represent a useful tool since they play a role in tumor cell metabolism, invasion, angiogenesis and metastasis. This review gives an overview of the role of proteases in development and progression of cutaneous malignant melanoma. In addition, regulation, activation, and interaction of proteases and their inhibitors are explained for tumors in general. The potential use of proteases as differential markers for melanoma mimicking melanocytic lesions, as biomarkers in tissues, and as prognostic serum markers is discussed. Current and future possibilities to target tumor proteases in therapy are presented.

Angiogenesis and progression in human melanoma

In tumor growth, angiogenesis, the process of new-formation of blood vessels from pre-existing ones, is uncontrolled and unlimited in time. The vascular phase is characterized by the new-formation of vascular channels that enhances tumor cell proliferation, local invasion and hematogenous metastasis. Human malignant melanoma is a highly metastatic tumor with poor prognosis, and high resistance to treatment. Parallel with progression, melanoma acquires a rich vascular network, whereas an increasing number of tumor cells express the laminin receptor, which enables their adhesion to the vascular wall, favouring tumor cell extravasation and metastases. Melanoma neovascularization has been correlated with poor prognosis, overall survival, ulceration and increased rate of relapse. Secretion of various angiogenic cytokines, i.e. VEGF-A, FGF-2, PGF-1 and -2, IL-8, and TGF-1 by melanoma cells promote the angiogenic switch and has been correlated to transition from the radial to the vertical growth phase, and to the metastatic phase. Moreover, melanoma cells overexpress alphavbeta3, alphavbeta5, alpha2beta1 and alpha5beta1 integrins and release, together with stromal cells, higher amount of metalloproteases that increasing their invasive potential and angiogenesis. Basing on these observations, different molecular targets of antiangiogenic molecules has be recognized and various antiangiogenic agents are currently in preclinical and clinical trials for melanoma.

Polymorphisms in MMP9 and SIPA1 are associated with increased risk of nodal metastases in early-stage cervical cancer

OBJECTIVE

Heritable polymorphisms modulate metastatic efficiency in Cancer Single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in MMP9 (rs17576) and SIPA1 (rs746429, rs931127) have been associated with nodal metastases in multiple cancers. We investigated the association of these SNPs with nodal metastases in early-stage cervical cancer.

METHODS

Consecutive patients with stage IB cervical cancer who underwent a pelvic lymph node (LN) dissection were included. Cases (>1 positive LN, n=101) were compared with controls (negative LN pathology, n=273). Genotyping was performed on genomic DNA in the 3 SNPs using a TaqMan assay and correlated with clinical variables.

RESULTS

The G allele at SIPA1 rs931127 was associated with an increased risk of nodal disease (OR 1.9, P=0.03) and approached significance at SIPA 1 rs746429 (OR 2.2, P=0.09) and MMP9 rs17576 (OR 1.5, 0.08). In patients with stage Ib1 lesions (n=304), the G allele at both SIPA1 SNPs was associated with LN metastases (rs746429 OR 10.1, P=0.01; rs931127 OR 2.4, P=0.01). In patients with no lymph vascular space invasion, SIPA1 SNPs were again associated with LN metastases, and all patients with nodal disease had at least one G allele at SIPA1 rs746429.

CONCLUSIONS

In this case-control study, SNPs in SIPA1 varied statistically in cervical cancer patients with and without nodal metastases and in MMP9 after controlling for stage and lymphvascular space invasion. Further work is needed to characterize inherited polymorphisms that provide a permissive background for the metastatic cascade.

Missense polymorphisms in matrix metalloproteinase genes and skin cancer risk

Matrix metalloproteinases (MMP) degrade various components of the extracellular matrix, and their overexpression has been implicated in tumor progression. Nonsynonymous single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) lead to amino acid substitutions that can alter the function of the encoded protein. We evaluated the associations of six nonsynonymous SNPs in the MMP3, MMP8, and MMP9 genes with skin cancer risk in a nested case-control study of Caucasians within the Nurses' Health Study among 218 melanoma cases, 285 squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) cases, 300 basal cell carcinoma (BCC) cases, and 870 normal controls. We observed that the MMP9 Arg668Gln polymorphism was significantly associated with a decreased risk of SCC. Compared with the Arg/Arg group, the multivariate odds ratio was 0.67 (95% confidence interval, 0.47-0.97) for the Arg/Gln group and 0.21 (95% confidence interval, 0.05-0.97) for the Gln/Gln group (P(trend) = 0.004). We did not observe any association of this SNP with the risks of melanoma and basal cell carcinoma. No associations were found for other SNPs with skin cancer risk. This study provides evidence for the contribution of the MMP9 Arg668Gln to SCC development.

Associations of matrix metalloproteinase-9 protein polymorphisms with lymph node metastasis but not invasion of gastric cancer

PURPOSE

Like most cancers, gastric cancer has a complex multistep etiology that involves both environmental and genetic factors. Matrix metalloproteinase-9 (MMP-9) is frequently overexpressed in gastric cancer. We investigated the effect of the genetic differences in MMP-9 coding region on the occurrence and progression of gastric cancer.

EXPERIMENTAL DESIGN

A case-control study was conducted in a population of 74 patients and 100 healthy people in southeast China. Individuals were genotyped for two single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNP) in MMP-9: R279Q and P574R. Genotypic distributions between patient and control groups were compared for correlations with cancer occurrence. Associations between genotypic distributions and several clinicopathologic features were also analyzed using univariate tests, multivariate logistic regression modeling, and stratified analyses.

RESULTS

Significant associations were revealed between both SNPs and lymph node metastasis [P = 0.012 and 0.025; odds ratio (OR), 3.4 and 2.8, respectively]. After adjustment using logistic regression for the potential confounding effects of gender, age, and location of the tumors, homozygous MMP-9 279RR and 574PP are more evidently associated with lymph node metastasis with OR(adjusted) of 5.7 [95% confidence interval (95% CI), 1.80-18.34] and 4.2 (95% CI, 1.37-12.69). The homozygous 279R-574P haplotype showed a stronger association by an OR(adjusted) of 6.1 (95% CI, 1.92-12.29) and was also associated with the 1-year postoperative mortality (OR(adjusted), 6.5; 95% CI, 1.18-35.74). Interestingly, our data also suggested that the MMP-9 polymorphisms seem to result in higher risk of lymph node metastasis through a pathway independent of cancer invasion because no positive associations were found between these polymorphisms and cancer invasion (OR, 0.59 < 1). The stratified analyses indicated a synergistic interaction between the MMP-9 polymorphisms and the type of diffuse in affecting lymph node metastasis (OR, 13.4; P(between strata) = 0.04). Significant association between both SNPs and the overall occurrence of gastric cancer was not observed.

CONCLUSION

The present study has shown significant associations between the two nonsynonymous MMP-9 polymorphisms with lymph node metastasis in gastric cancer, especially with the diffuse type. The relatively large values of ORs and disassociation with cancer invasion suggest that the genetic differences of MMP-9 protein play an important and specific role in lymph node metastases, and therefore, further investigation of the underlying molecular mechanism is warranted.

Haplotype analysis of the matrix metalloproteinase-9 gene associated with advanced-stage endometriosis

OBJECTIVE

To investigate whether the -1562C>T, R279Q, P574R, and R668Q polymorphisms of the matrix metalloproteinase-9 (MMP-9) gene are related to endometriosis.

DESIGN

Case-control study.

SETTING

University-based hospital in Korea.

PATIENT(S)

Patients with endometriosis stage III/IV (n = 225) who underwent pelvic surgery and controls (n = 198) with no endometriosis in a Korean population.

INTERVENTION(S)

Peripheral blood samples were collected by venipuncture.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE(S)

Frequencies of genotypes and haplotypes were compared with the risk of endometriosis including -1562C>T, R279Q, P574R, and R668Q polymorphisms of MMP-9.

RESULT(S)

In the two-locus haplotype analyses using the four single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs), an increase in the distribution of the R279Q/P574R (2678G>A/4859C>G) (AC haplotype: odds ratio [OR] = 3.180, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.956-5.170; GG haplotype: OR = 4.374, 95% CI = 2.376-8.053) and -1562C>T/R668Q (-1562C>T/5546G>A) (CA haplotype: OR = 3.280, 95% CI = 1.406-7.653) haplotypes was significantly associated with endometriosis. By contrast, the risk of endometriosis was not associated with the individual SNPs studied.

CONCLUSION(S)

These findings suggest that haplotype analysis was more informative than SNP analysis. The haplotypes in the MMP-9 gene may correlate with the progression of endometriosis, and further study of these variations might improve our understanding of the pathogenesis of endometriosis.

Angiogenesis in melanoma

The process of angiogenesis is crucial for progression and metastasis of the majority of solid tumors including melanomas. The current review summarizes existing knowledge of the mechanisms of angiogenesis in melanoma, as well as current anti-angiogenic therapeutic strategies and their targets. We focus primarily on the role of key growth factors that are secreted by melanoma cells and known to trigger angiogenic responses, and their receptors as expressed on both endothelial and melanoma cells. Many of these growth factors function in synergy with receptors for extracellular matrix, integrins, and matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs). All of these systems of molecules are activated during major stages of angiogenesis such as endothelial migration, proliferation, and reorganization of surrounding extracellular matrix. The blockade of these molecules and their downstream pathways leads to inhibition of melanoma vascularization. Thus, these classes of molecules are essential for melanoma angiogenesis and, therefore, might serve as promising targets for therapeutic intervention. Many recently developed compounds targeting key pathways in angiogenesis are in their final stages of clinical trials.

MMP2 promoter polymorphism (C-1306T) and risk of recurrence in patients with hepatocellular carcinoma after transplantation

Genetic variants in matrix metalloproteinase (MMP) gene may influence the biological function of these enzymes and change their role in carcinogenesis and progression. The effect of MMP2 C-1306T and MMP9 C-1562T polymorphisms on genetic susceptibility has been investigated in various kinds of cancer. However, the relationship between these polymorphisms and risk of recurrence of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) after liver transplantation (LT) has not been reported. The present study was designed to investigate the association of these two loci with the risk of HCC recurrence in 93 HCC patients treated with LT. Genotyping was performed using direct DNA sequencing. For MMP2 C-1306T variant, patients with CT heterozygous conferred a 58% reduction in recurrence risk (risk ratio: 0.419; 95% confidence interval: 0.177-0.994). The mean recurrence-free survival for CT genotype was significantly longer than that for homozygous CC patients (30.4 vs 19.3 months, p = 0.019). However, no association was found between MMP9 C-1562T polymorphisms and recurrence of HCC (p = 0.259). These findings suggest that MMP2 promoter polymorphisms may provide some predictive value for HCC recurrence after LT.