Matrix metalloproteinase 2 (MMP-2) and its tissue inhibitor 2 (TIMP-2) in pancreatic cancer (PC)

The incidence rate of pancreatic cancer (PC) is similar to mortality rate, thus searching specific tumor biomarkers of PC is sorely needed. Matrix metalloproteinase-2 (MMP-2) and the imbalance between MMP-2 and its tissue inhibitor (TIMP-2) play a critical role in tumor progression. We aim to assess the diagnostic and prognostic usefulness of serum MMP-2 and TIMP-2 as potential biomarkers in comparison to well-established tumor markers of PC (CA 19-9, carbohydrate antigen 19-9 and CEA, carcinoembryonic antigen)