A high concentration of MMP-2/gelatinase A and MMP-9/gelatinase B reduce NK cell-mediated cytotoxicity against an oral squamous cell carcinoma cell line.

Background: Recent studies have shown that matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) from tumors influence the host immune system to reduce antitumor activity. The aim of this study was to examine the influence of MMP-2 and MMP-9 on the natural killer (NK) cell.

Materials And Methods: NK cells were pretreated with either MMP-2 or MMP-9 in the experimental group but not in the control group.