Matrix metalloproteinases as diagnostic (MMP-13) and prognostic (MMP-2, MMP-9) markers of prostate cancer

Previous studies have detected high levels of matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) in metastatic prostate cancer. In this study, we recruited 40 patients with prostate cancer (PCa): 20 presented organ-confined carcinoma and 20 had metastatic cancer. We also recruited 40 subjects for control groups, 20 with benign prostate hyperplasia (BPH) and 20 healthy males with similar characteristics. All of the patients were monitored at the beginning (time 0) and after 90 days. We analyzed the plasma concentrations of MMP-2, MMP-9, MMP-13, TIMP-1 and the enzyme activity of MMP-2 and MMP-9,using specific ELISA tests. The plasma concentrations of MMP-2, MMP-9 and MMP-13 were higher in PCa patients with metastasis than in the other groups, and in these patients decreased markedly after therapy began. For MMP-2 and MMP-9, greater differences were observed in enzyme activity than in plasma concentrations. TIMP-1 was reduced in PCa patients with metastasis, even if the intergroup differences were not statistically significant. Our results suggest that the plasma concentration and activity of MMPs, in association with PSA determination, could play a role in diagnosis, monitoring therapy and evaluating malignant progression in PCa.