Expression of matrix metalloproteinase 1, matrix metalloproteinase 2, and matrix metalloproteinase 9 in carcinoma of the head and neck

Abstract

This study documents the existence of a correlation between MMP-9 expression, activity of the iNOS pathway, p53 status, and angiogenesis in patients with HNSCC. This raises the possibility that p53 mutation, which frequently is present in HNSCC, may result in increased angiogenesis and invasiveness related to increased nitric oxide and MMP production by tumor cells, ultimately contributing to tumor progression.