MMP-7 (matrilysin) expression in human brain tumors
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Updated: Jul 17, 2026
Identifying, Diagnosing, and Grading Malignant Peripheral Nerve Sheath Tumors in Genetically Engineered Mouse Models
Published on: May 17, 2024
Claire Rome1, Josette Arsaut, Caroline Taris
1Molecular and Functional Imaging, ERT-CNRS 5543, Université Victor Segalen, Bordeaux, France.
Abstract:
Matrix metalloproteinases (MMP) which degrades protein components of the extra-cellular matrix and basement membrane seems to be largely involved in cancer invasiveness. MMP proteolitic activity essentially comes from stromal cells but matrilysin (MMP-7) is produced by the tumor itself. Thus, MMP-7 is investigated to address the particular invasive behavior of human glioma. Both MMP-7 mRNA and protein were clearly identified in human glioma. MMP-7 mRNA expression was highly variable within our glioma population. When analyzing MMP-7 mRNA expression in different primary brain tumors, we found highly variable levels of expression not related to their invasive behavior. In successive biopsies obtained in the same patients with glioblastoma, MMP-7 mRNA was quantified and appeared variable, but intra-individual variations were lower than inter-individual differences. With a xenograft model of U87 human tumors in RAG2/gamma(c) immune-deficient mice, the strict tumor origin of MMP-7 was shown. Additionally, MMP-7 expression by U87 cells which is low in culture was stimulated by these cells while forming tumors and the level of expression was higher when the tumor cells were implanted within the brain. These data provide some consistent information about cross-talk occurring between the tumor and the surrounding stroma to regulate MMP-7 expression.
Insights
Matrilysin (MMP-7), produced by tumor cells, is investigated for its role in human glioma invasiveness. MMP-7 expression varies significantly between patients and is influenced by tumor microenvironment interactions.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Molecular Biology
- Biochemistry
Background:
- Matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) degrade extracellular matrix, aiding cancer invasion.
- While most MMPs originate from stromal cells, Matrilysin (MMP-7) is tumor-derived.
- MMP-7's role in human glioma invasion warrants specific investigation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the expression and regulation of Matrilysin (MMP-7) in human glioma.
- To determine the cellular origin and microenvironmental influences on MMP-7 expression in brain tumors.
Main Methods:
- Quantitative analysis of MMP-7 mRNA and protein in human glioma samples.
- Comparison of MMP-7 expression across different primary brain tumors and serial biopsies.
- Xenograft model using U87 human glioma cells in immune-deficient mice to study tumor origin and microenvironment effects.
Main Results:
- MMP-7 mRNA and protein were detected in human gliomas, with highly variable expression levels.
- MMP-7 expression levels did not correlate with the invasive behavior of different primary brain tumors.
- Intra-individual variations in MMP-7 mRNA were lower than inter-individual differences in glioblastoma patients.
- MMP-7 originates strictly from tumor cells, with expression increasing during tumor formation and being higher when implanted in the brain.
Conclusions:
- MMP-7 is a tumor-derived factor implicated in glioma.
- Tumor cell-produced MMP-7 expression is regulated by complex cross-talk with the surrounding stroma.
- Microenvironmental factors significantly influence MMP-7 expression in brain tumors.
