Evaluation of Matrix Metalloproteinase 2 and 9 Activity in Patients with Prostate Cancer and Benign Prostate Hyperplasia Compared with Healthy Individuals

Prostate cancer (PC) is one of the most prevalent cancers with high mortality and morbidity in men, which can be treated in different ways before the progression and metastasis to distant organs. Destruction of extracellular matrix by matrix metalloproteinase (MMP), particularly by the 2 and 9 subtypes, has an important role in the metastasis of PC. We aimed to assess the activity of MMP 2 and 9 and some related metalloproteinases in PC and with benign prostate hyperplasia (BPH) patients in comparison to healthy individuals.

In this case-control study, 72 individuals referred to Imam Khomeini hospital (Tehran, Iran), have been divided into 3 groups, including PC, BPH, and healthy control. Age and body mass index (BMI) for all groups have been matched. Venous blood samples were used to assess the enzyme activity by the zymography technique.

The activity of MMP-2 and 9 was significantly higher in PC than BPH and control groups. But there was no difference in the activity of enzymes in patients with PC according to the Gleason score.

The results suggested that MMPs activity can be considered a diagnostic marker for PC. However, further studies are required to establish this concept.