| Objective: Matrix metalloproteinase-2(MMP-2),which degrades the extracellular matrix or the basement membrane,has an essential role in tumor invasion and metastasis.To evaluate the roles of MMP-2 and its inhibitor(tissue inbibitor of metalloprote- -inase-2)( TIMP-2)in tumor invasion or as a prognostic factor in patients with bladder carcinoma and to investigate the expression of MMP-2 and TIMP-2 in patients with bladder carcinoma.Methods:Tissues obtained from 41 patients with bladder carcinoma were used analysis.Expression of MMP-2 and TIMP-2 were examined by immunohistochemistry.Correlations between the levels of MMP-2 and TIMP-2 expression with pathological stage or patient outcome were evaluated.Results:Expression of MMP-2 and TIMP-2 was significantly higher in muscle invasive pt2≤bladder tumors than in pt1a tumors(MMP-2:P<0.005;TIMP-2:P,0.005)Moreover,high levels of MMP-2 and TIMP-2 were strongly associated with decreased survival (MMP-2:P<0.001;TIMP-2:P<0.001).Conclusions:MMP-2 and TIMP-2 are believed to contribute to the invasive properties of bladder carcinoma.The expression of MMP-2 and TIMP-2 are useful prognostic indicators in patients with bladder carcinoma. |
