Matrix metalloproteinase and colorectal cancer

Matrix metalloproteinase (MMP) plays an important role in the degradation of extracellular matrix components, which is crucial for tumor growth, invasion and metastasis. As one with the largest relative molecular mass in MMP family, MMP-9 takes part in the generation and progression of colorectal cancer. Research shows that MMP-9 can be used for the early diagnosis of colorectal cancer. The expression levels of MMP-9 in tissue and plasma are negatively correlated with prognosis of the postoperative patients with colorectal cancer. In addition, targeted therapy drugs will be designed on the basis of MMP-9 expression increased in colorectal cancer. Key words: Matrix metalloproteinase 9; Colorectal neoplasms; Diagnosis; Prognosis; Therapy