Mmp13−/− mice had fewer tumors and the distribution curve shifted to the left compared to WT mice, however the tumors were still capable of becoming large, suggesting that loss of host MMP13 could affect some of the earlier steps in the metastatic cascade such as tumor cell survival in the vasculature and seeding to the liver or ability of tumor cells to adhere to the vasculature and extravasate into the liver tissue. The gene discussed is MMP13; the disease is neoplasm.