Elevated plasma matrix metalloproteinase-9 level in hepatocellular carcinoma: is it induced by hepatocyte growth factor?

ABSTRACT

Hepatocellular carcinoma [HCC] is one of the most common cancers worldwide affecting one million cases per year. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the diagnostic role of plasma matrix metalloproteinase-9 [MMP-9] in patients with HCC and its relation to hepatocyte growth factor [HGF]. This study was conducted on 30 patients classified into Group II included 10 patients with chronic active hepatitis. Group III included 10 patients with liver cirrhosis and Group IV included 10 patients with HCC. Ten healthy subjects were also included in the study as a control group [group I]. Alt studied groups were subjected to clinical, laboratory, ultrasonographic examination and estimation of serum alpha-fetoprotein [APP], HGF and plasma MMP-9. There were significant elevations in serum levels of AFP. HGF and plasma levels of MMP-9 in patients with HCC compared to other studied groups. Also serum AFP and HGF levels in group II and III were higher than those of the controls. However, MMP-9 levels in group II and III were not significantly different from those of the controls. Also MMP-9 and HGF levels were significantly higher in HCC patients with lung metastasis. portal invasion and tumour size MMP-9 showed a positive correlation with HGF in HCC group, but no correlations were found between AFP and either MMP-9 or HGF. The sensitivity and specificity of MMP-9 in detection of HCC were 100%. So we can conclude that, plasma MMP-9 might be a candidate for a sensitive marker for HCC, particularly for metastatic potential. HGF may be responsible for activation of MMP-9 production in HCCs