There is an obvious need to diagnose lung cancer using novel non-invasive and sensitive biomarkers. In this regard, the aim of the present study was to evaluate and compare sputum MMP-2 in relation to serum MMP-2 of lung cancer patients and other non-malignant lung diseases in order to establish a new diagnostic and prognostic biomarker with a valid non-invasive technique.

DESIGN AND METHODS: Group (1) included (32) newly diagnosed lung cancer patients and group (2) included (20) patients with benign pulmonary diseases. In addition, (38) healthy subjects served as control group. MMP-2 activity levels were evaluated in serum and sputum samples of the studied groups using ELISA and zymography techniques.

RESULTS: There was a highly significant increase in serum and sputum MMP-2 levels in malignant group in comparison with benign and control groups. In addition, there was a significant difference in the levels of serum and sputum MMP-2 as regards the different histopathological types of lung cancer and advanced stages of lung cancer. Gelatin zymography was used to confirm the enzymatic activity of MMP-2. A higher MMP-2 activity was detected in lung cancer group in comparison with benign and control groups.

CONCLUSION: Serum and to a larger extent sputum MMP-2 appear to be potential non-invasive markers for detecting lung cancer. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.