Mmp-9 and Fascin-1 Expression in Endometrioid-Type Endometrial Carcinoma and Their Prognostic Value

Abstract

Backgrounds Matrix metalloproteinases (MMP) and fascin-1 play roles in epithelial-mesenchymal transition and tumour invasion. Aims This study was performed to investigate the relationships of fascin-1 and MMP-9 expression with prognostic parameters in endometrioid-type endometrial carcinoma (EEC). Methods A total of 100 cases of EEC were included in the study. Tissues were stained with antibodies against fascin-1 and MMP-9. The relationships between the immunohistochemical findings and clinicopathological prognostic parameters of EEC were examined. Results Tumour diameter was significantly related to lymphovascular invasion, FIGO stage and FIGO grade (p 2 cm was associated with a poor prognosis. The staining score for fascin-1 was 5 in 19 cases (p > 0.05), and that for MMP-9 was 5 in 61 cases (p > 0.05). Neither fascin-1 nor MMP-9 expression was significantly related to any of the clinicopathological parameters examined. Conclusion There were no significant relationships of fascin-1 and MMP-9 expression with the clinicopathological parameters of EEC. The results of this study suggested that these molecules do not contribute to the clinical behaviour of EECs. A tumour size > 2 cm is associated with a poor prognosis in EEC patients. To verify these results, more studies are needed with larger patient groups.