Expression of matrix metalloproteinases in diffuse gliomas: diagnostic value

Abstract

Diffuse gliomas are malignant tumors with high invasiveness, last is provided by the synthesis of proteases, in particular matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs). Expression of metalloproteinases has been repeatedly documented in different forms of diffuse gliomas, but the differential diagnostic possibilities of its usage need additional research. The aim of the work was to determine the diagnostic role of MMP-3 and MMP-9 expression in brain diffuse gliomas of different histological types and malignancy grades. Materials and methods. Histological and immunohistochemical examination of diffuse astrocytic and oligodendroglial gliomas (Grade II-IV) was performed (52 samples). The average age of the patients was 43.13 years (age range was 22-73 years), the male: female ratio was 1.08:1. Results. The intensity of MMP-3 and MMP-9 expression and localization of preserved proteins are similar in diffuse gliomas (however, expression levels coincide in 76.9% of tumors). Predominantly cytoplasmic expression is showed by tumor cells, as well as vascular endothelium. The high level (++) expression of MMP-3 is characteristic for 80.8% glioblastomas (Grade IV WHO), 57.1% of the Grade III tumors, and only among 14.3% of diffuse astrocytes and oligodendrogliomas (p0.05). Expression of MMPs depended on proliferative tumor activity and patient's age (p<0.05). There was no statistically significant difference between MMPs expression in women and men. Conclusions. The expression of MMP-3 and -9 is similar by pattern and intensity in diffuse gliomas of the brain. The intensity of MMPs expression depends on the malignancy grade and Grade-dependent features of diffuse glial tumors.

Keywords

• diffuse glioma
• immunohistochemistry
• diagnostic tests
• MMP-3
• MMP-9