The Contribution of Matrix Metalloproteinase-7 Promoter Genotypes in Breast Cancer in Taiwan.

BACKGROUND/AIM: The matrix metalloproteinase (MMP) family of enzymes are in charge of degradation of various components of the extracellular matrix and their functional genetic polymorphisms may be associated with cancer susceptibility. The functional polymorphisms in the promoter region of MMP7 (A-181G and C-153T) have been reported to influence the binding capacity of nuclear proteins and may contribute to genetic susceptibility to cancer. In this study, we focused on investigating the contribution of the genotypes of MMP7 (A-181G and C-153T) to breast cancer in Taiwan.

MATERIALS AND METHODS: These two polymorphisms were genotyped in 1,232 patients with breast cancer and 1,232 controls by polymerase chain reaction-restriction fragment length polymorphism methodology.

RESULTS: The odds ratios (ORs) after adjusting for age, family history of cancer, smoking and alcohol drinking status for those carrying AG and GG genotypes at MMP7 promoter A-181G were 1.22 (95%CI=0.91-1.63, p=0.2235) and 2.84 (95%CI=1.64-7.48, p=0.0007) respectively, compared to those carrying the wild-type AA genotype. Supporting this finding, the adjusted OR for those carrying the G allele at MMP7 promoter A-181G was 1.57 (95%CI=1.29-1.93, p=0.0008), compared to those carrying the wild-type A allele. There was no polymorphic genotype at MMP7 C-153T found among any of the investigated individuals.

CONCLUSION: Our findings suggest that the MMP7 A-181G polymorphisms may play a role in determining personal cancer susceptibility and GG genotype at MMP7 A-181G may serve as a biomarker for early detection and prediction of breast cancer in Taiwanese.