Galectin 1 overexpression in breast cancer tissues: Relation to serum matrix metalloproteinase 2 and 9 activity

Abstract

© 2017 Elsevier Inc. Context Elevated expression of galectins correlates with neoplastic progression in certain malignancies. Matrix Metalloproteinases (MMPs) have been implicated in metastatic and angiogenic processes. Gal-1 promoted tumor invasion in oral cancer cell lines in part by augmenting MMP-2 and MMP-9 expression and enzymatic activities. Objective Our aim was to assess the expression of Galectin-1 mRNA and correlate its expression with the clinico-pathological parameters and with potent serum (MMP 2, 9) activity in breast cancer. Materials and methods Semi quantitative RT PCR analysis was done on all breast tissue samples (malignant and benign). Gelatin zymography was performed in order to detect both latent and activated forms of serum MMP-2 and 9 in the same patients. Results There was a significant relation between Galectin-1 expression and the histological grade, stage of the tumor, presence of lymph node metastasis and potent MMP-2 and MMP-9 activity. Conclusion Galectin-1 could be a promising potential marker for breast cancer.