Expression pattern of matrix metalloproteinase 20 (MMP20) in human tumors

Background/Aim: Matrix metalloproteinase 20 (MMP20) is a member of the family of matrix metalloproteinases. Under normal conditions the expression of MMP20 is restricted to ameloblasts and odontoblasts. In order to identify a possible expression of MMP20 under pathological conditions, we investigated three major human tumor entities, i.e. colon, breast and lung tumors, on the mRNA and protein level. Materials and Methods: Real-time RT-PCR and immunocytochemical analyses of established human tumor cell lines were employed for our study; immunohistochemical analysis was performed on both primary tumors and normal control tissues. Results: MMP20 was identified on both the mRNA and the protein level in breast MCF-7, colon HT-29, and lung A549 cell lines. MMP20 was also detected in primary tumor tissue by immunohistochemistry. Conclusion: MMP20 is a new potential candidate for tumor diagnosis or therapy.