Matrix metalloproteinase 9 plays a central role in connective tissue degradation, tumour-induced angiogenesis, cell proliferation/apoptosis and cell migration in various tumour types including cervical cancer (van Kempen and Coussens, 2002; Van Trappen et al, 2002; Zucker and Vacirca, 2004; Vazquez-Ortiz et al, 2005b). This evidence concerns the gene MMP9 and cervical cancer.