Clinical significances of matrix metalloproteinase-2, and p185^HER-2/neu expressions in ovarian cancer by tissue microarray

Objective: To investigate the relationship of matrix metalloproteinase-2(MMP-2) and p185^HER-2/neu protein expressions in the development of ovarian cancer and to assess the value of MMP-2 and p185^HER-2/neu for diagnosing and differentiating.Methods: The expressions of MMP-2 and p185^HER-2/neu protein of 80 cases of ovarian cancer and 30 cases of normal tissues were examined by immunohistochemistry on tissue microarrays.Results: In ovarian cancer tissue and normal tissue,the positive expression rates of MMP-2 and p185^HER-2/neu were significant differences between the two groups(P<0.01).The expressions of MMP-2 and p185^HER-2/neu were closely correlated with histological grade,FIGO stage,lymph node(P<0.05-P<0.01),but no association was observed with the clinical stage.There was a significant positive correlation between the expressions of MMP-2 and p185^HER-2/neu in ovarian cancer(P<0.01).Combined detection of MMP-2 and p185^HER-2/neu,the sensitivity and accuracy were increased and negative likelihood ratio was decreased.Conclusions: MMP-2 and p185^HER-2/neu expression might strengthen the invasion and metastasis of ovarian cancer.MMP-2 may associate with regulation of p185^HER-2/neu.Joint detection of MMP-2 and p185^HER-2/neu will increase the specificity of immunoassay,accuracy and expected positivity.They may be valueable indicators in detection of ovarian cancer.