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Updated: Jul 5, 2026

Performing Data Mining And Integrative Analysis Of Biomarker in Breast Cancer Using Multiple Publicly Accessible Databases
Published on: May 17, 2019
Matrix metalloproteinase expression and outcome in patients with breast cancer: analysis of a published database
1Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, St Vincent's University Hospital, Dublin 4, Ireland.
Abstract:
Traditionally, matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) have been implicated in cancer invasion and metastasis. Because of their role in these processes, several MMPs have been investigated for potential prognostic value as well as targets for antimetastatic therapy. In this investigation, we used a publically available database to relate messenger RNA expression levels for 17 different MMPs to tumor characteristics and outcome in patients with breast cancer. Of the MMPs investigated, only MMP-1 was significantly increased in tumors >2 cm in size compared with those
Insights
Matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) are linked to breast cancer progression. High expression of specific MMPs, including MMP-1, -9, -12, -14, and -15, correlates with poorer patient survival and may represent therapeutic targets.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Molecular Biology
- Cancer Research
Background:
- Matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) are crucial in cancer invasion and metastasis.
- Several MMPs have been explored for prognostic value and as targets for anti-metastatic therapies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the relationship between messenger RNA (mRNA) expression levels of 17 different MMPs and breast cancer characteristics and patient outcomes.
- To identify specific MMPs associated with tumor progression and survival in breast cancer patients.
Main Methods:
- Utilized a publicly available database to analyze MMP mRNA expression.
- Correlated MMP expression with tumor size, grade, lymph node status, and overall survival in breast cancer patients.
- Performed univariate analysis to assess prognostic significance.
Main Results:
- MMP-1 expression was higher in larger tumors (>2 cm).
- MMP-1, -9, -12, and -15 were elevated in high-grade tumors.
- MMP-10 was higher in lymph node-positive cancers.
- High expression of MMP-1, -9, -12, -14, and -15 correlated with poor overall survival.
- MMP-14 was the only MMP that independently predicted outcome, irrespective of tumor characteristics.
Conclusions:
- A subset of MMPs (MMP-1, -9, -12, -14, -15) are associated with adverse outcomes in breast cancer.
- These MMPs likely contribute to breast cancer progression.
- Targeting these specific MMPs with inhibitors may offer a therapeutic strategy for breast cancer treatment.