Does MMP-9 Gene Polymorphism Play a Role in Pituitary Adenoma Development?

Purpose. To determine if the MMP-9 genotype has an influence on development of pituitary adenoma (PA). Methodology. The study enrolled n = 86 patients with PA and n = 526 healthy controls (reference group). The genotyping of MMP-9 was carried out using the real-time polymerase chain reaction method. Results. Our data demonstrated that the MMP-9 (–1562) C/C genotype was more frequent in PA group than in healthy controls (81.4% versus 64.6%, p = 0.002); C/C genotype was more frequently present in PA females compared to healthy control females, 81.5% versus 64.6%, p = 0.018, as well. MMP-9 (–1562) C/C genotype was frequently observed for all subgroups: noninvasive and invasive, nonrecurrence, and inactive PA compared to healthy controls: 81.8% versus 64.6%, p = 0.021; 81.0% versus 64.6%, p = 0.041; 81.8% versus 64.6%, p = 0.005; 100.0% versus 64.6%, p < 0.001, respectively. MMP-9 (–1562) C/C genotype was more frequent in inactive PA compared to active PA: 100.0% versus 71.4%; p < 0.001. Conclusion. MMP-9 (–1562) C/C genotype plays a role in nonrecurrence, inactive, and invasive as well as in nonivasive PA development.