Expression of matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)-1, MMP-2, MMP-9, cathepsin B, and urokinase plasminogen actovator in non-skull base chordoma

We analyzed the expression of proteases and the clinicopathologic significance in non-skull base chordoma (NSBC). By using immunohistochemical techniques, we studied the expression of matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)-1, MMP-2, MMP-9, cathepsin B (CatB), and urokinase plasminogen activator (uPA) in 29 NSBCs and compared-these data with clinicopathologic parameters and the expression of cell differentiation markers. Expression of MMP-1 (P.092), MMP-2 (P =.041), and CatB (P =.058) was associated with nuclear pleomorphism, a previously described adverse prognostic indicator Expression of cytokeratin 8 correlated with that of MMP- 1 (P =.005), MMP-2 (P =.002), and uPA (P 032). Patients with higher MMP-2 expression had a poorer prognosis than those with lower MMP-2 expression (P =.-013). We believe that NSBCs with nuclear pleomorphism or stronger epithelial character have a higher invasive ability than those without. In addition, high MMP-2 expression was an indicator of an unfavorable clinical outcome in NSBC.