Pathogenetic significance of the matrix metalloproteinase system in squamous cell head and neck cancer

The paper analyses the relationship between the components of the MMP system including proteases, their tissue inhibitors (TIMP) and extracellular matrix metalloproteinase inducter (EMMPRIN) in tumor and stroma cells as well as the changes in these parameters in cases with lymphogenic metastasis. Sixty-two postsurgical specimens of squamous-cell head and neck carcinoma were studied. Expressions of MMP-1,-2,-9, TIMP-1,-2 and EMMPRIN were studied using immunohistochemical method. It was shown that in squamous-cell head and neck carcinomas, the expressions of MMP-1,-2,-9 and TIMP-1were significantly higher in stroma than in tumor cells, while the increased expressions of TIMP-1 and EMMPRIN were observed in cancer cells. There was studied the correlation between expressions of the MMP system components allowing the important role of EMMPRIN located on the cell surface to be suggested. With the evidence of regional lymph nodes, the level of TIMP-2 expression in tumor cells and the level of TIMP-1expression in stromal cells were registered to be significantly decreased. Based on the results obtained, the scheme of regulation of squamous-cell head and neck carcinoma progression by the MMP system components was suggested