Expression of matrix metalloproteinase-2 (MMP-2) and of membrane-type-1-matrix metalloproteinase (MT1-MMP) in transitional cell carcinoma of the upper urinary tract

Tumor cell invasion and metastasis are biologically dependent on the proteo lytic destruction of surrounding matrix components. Matrix metalloproteinas e-2 (MMP-2) is able to cleave type IV collagen, and membrane-type-l-matrix metalloproteinase (MT1-MMP) induces activation of proMMP-2. We investigated the expression of MMP-2 and MT1-MMP using in situ hybridization and immuno histochemistry in 102 cases of transitional cell carcinoma of the upper uri nary tract (TCC-UUT). A positive expression of each metalloproteinase was r ecognized in all samples and was apparent within the cytoplasm of tumor epi thelial cells and/or stromal cells situated at the interface between tumor and stroma. Our analysis of clinicopathologic findings showed a relationshi p between MMP-2 and MT1-MMP expression and stage. The correlation between t he MMP-2 protein staining score for tumor epithelial cells and overall surv ival rate reached significance in the univariate analysis. However, only st age was associated with disease-free and overall survivals in the multivari ate analysis. In conclusion, the detection of MMP-2 and MT1-MMP would appea r to be of limited value in informing the prognosis of TCC-UUT. Copyright ( C) 2000 by W.B. Saunders Company.