Other important mediators indirectly involved in neoangiogenesis are the MMPs (matrix metalloproteinases), particularly MMP9 and MMP2, the uPa (urokinase-type plasminogen activator) and the TIMPs (tissue inhibitors of metalloproteinases), particularly TIMP2, all responsible for extra-cellular matrix degradation, another important step in tumours angiogenesis, invasion and metastasis. Here, PLAU is linked to neoplasm.