Expression of matrix metalloproteinase-14 gene in endometriosis

Objective To evaluate the role of matrix metalloproteinase-14 (MMP-14) in the pathogenesis of endometriosis. Methods The expression of MMP-14 protein in 25 specimens of endometriosis and 22 specimens of normal endometrium were studied by immunohistochemical SP and the expression of MMP-14 mRNA in 33 specimens of endometriosis and 30 specimens of normal endometrium were further assessed by reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR). Result The protein and mRNA expression levels of MMP-14 in endometriosis were significantly higher than those in normal endometrium (P 0.05). Conclusion MMP-14 maybe plays an important role in the pathogenesis of endometriosis.