Identification of matrix metalloproteinase 11 as a prognostic biomarker in pancreatic cancer

Abstract

Background/Aim: The aim of this study was to investigate matrix metalloproteinase 11 (MMP11) as a promising biomarker in human pancreatic cancer. Materials and Methods: A consecutive eliminating method was used to select biomarker candidates in pancreatic cancer. mRNA and protein expression levels of candidates were determined in tissues and whole blood samples of healthy donors and pancreatic cancer patients. The prognostic value of MMP11 was determined using various data-sets and Liptak’s Z analysis. Results: Analysis using Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) database showed significantly higher MMP11 mRNA expression in pancreatic cancer tissues compared to that in various normal tissues. MMP11 protein was specifically expressed in pancreatic cancer tissues, but not in various normal or other cancer tissues. Secreted MMP11 levels could be measured using easily accessible techniques and whole blood samples of pancreatic cancer. In addition, high levels of MMP11 were associated with poor prognosis of pancreatic cancer patients. Conclusion: MMP11 may be a promising prognostic biomarker for pancreatic cancer patients.