Association of matrix Metalloproteinase-9 rs3918242 promoter genotypes with colorectal cancer risk

Background/Aim: Matrix metalloproteinase-9 (MMP-9) is responsible for modifying extracellular components and plays a crucial role in the metastatic behavior of cancer. This study aimed at examining the role of MMP-9 rs3918242 genotypes on colorectal cancer (CRC) risk. Materials and Methods: A total of 362 CRC patients and 362 healthy subjects in Taiwan, were examined by the polymerase chain reaction-restriction fragment length polymorphism (PCR-RFLP) methodology. Results: The MMP-9 rs3918242 TT genotype carriers had a slightly increased risk of CRC compared to CC carriers (p=0.1642, OR=1.88, 95% CI=0.84-4.16). Patients of CT/TT genotypes were on significantly higher risk of metastasis (p=0.0027) than those of CC genotype. No obvious association was found between MMP-9 genotype and CRC risk among ever-smokers, non-smokers, non-alcohol drinkers or alcohol drinkers. No significant correlation was observed between MMP-9 genotypic distributions with age, gender, tumor size or location. Conclusion: MMP-9 rs3918242 genotypes may interact with BMI to serve as a predictor for higher CRC risk, and independently as a predictor for metastasis.