Immunohistochemical expression of matrilysins (MMP-7 and MMP-26) in ameloblastomas and adenomatoid odontogenic tumors

Objective The aim was to evaluate the expression of matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) 7 and 26 in ameloblastomas and adenomatoid odontogenic tumors (AOTs). Study design Twenty intraosseous solid ameloblastomas and 10 intraosseous AOTs were evaluated regarding immunohistochemical expression of MMP-7 and -26 in the epithelium and stroma. Results There was no statistically significant difference in MMP-7 and -26 expression between the epithelium of ameloblastomas ( P = .50) and AOTs ( P = .90). Stromal staining for MMP-7 was evident in all cases. For MMP-26, stromal staining was observed in 65% of ameloblastomas and 50% of AOTs, and this difference was not statistically significant ( P = .69). Conclusion The marked expression of these matrilysins suggests their role in the process of tissue remodeling and growth in the studied tumors, but it does not relate to the their distinct patterns of aggressiveness.