Background: Ameloblastoma (AM) is a benign odontogenic epithelium but it has aggressive and invasive behavior and high rate of recurrence. Matrix metalloproteinase-1 (MMP-1) is a member of the matrix metalloproteinases family, and its aberrant expression is implicated in tumor invasion and metastasis.
The aim of this study was to compare the immunoexpression of Matrix Metalloproteinase-1 (MMP-1) in different types ofAmeloblastomas (AMs) and to correlate the clinical, radiographic and histological features of AMs in relation to MMP-1 expression.
Material and Methods: A total of 25 formalin fixed paraffin embedded tissues previously diagnosed as AM was utilized. Diagnosis was confirmed by H&E stain. Tissue sections were prepared and stained with MMP-1. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS version 26.0.
Results: There was astatistical significant difference between conventional and unicystic AM cases in age, size, x-ray and MMP-1 expression. Moreover, there was a significant difference between old & young age cases, as well as between unilocular&multilocular cases and between small& large cases regarding expression of MMP-1.
Conclusions: MMP-1 could be considered as a reliable marker or indicator for the local invasion, expansion and progression of AM. In addition, Stromal cells of AM are involved with the neoplastic cells in the regulation of tumor progression and expansion due to their role in degradation of matrix components.