[The serum concentration of metalloproteinase 9 and 2 in non-small cell lung cancer patients].

UNLABELLED: Matrix metalloproteinases are responsible for the proteolytic degradation of the basement membrane and extracellular matrix. Elevated expression levels of MMP-9 and MMP-2 have been associated with tumor invasion and metastasis. THE AIM OF THIS STUDY: To determine serum concentrations of metalloproteinases 9 and 2 in non-small cell lung cancer patients depending on tumor stage. MATERIAL AND METHODS: The study group consisted of 50 patients with non-small cell lung cancer (16 females and 34 males) ranging in age from 47 - 80 years (mean age 63 +/- 8.2). MMP-9 and MMP-2 concentrations in serum were evaluated by ELISA. RESULTS: MMP-9 and MMP-2 concentrations in serum did not differ significantly between group with different T- and N-factor. Serum level of MMP-9 was significantly higher in patients with metastases than those without them. Patients with inoperable tumor (IIIB - IV) had significantly higher serum MMP-9 concentrations compared with resected tumor (I - IlIA). CONCLUSIONS: Serum MMP-9 may be a marker of metastasis in non-small cell lung cancer.