MMPs are key proteins implicated in extracellular matrix remodeling and degradation by metastatic cells.31 MMP2 is a zinc-dependent endopeptidase involved in tumorigenesis, metastasis and angiogenesis through interacting with extracellular matrix.32, 33, 34, 35, 36 Suppression of MMP2 was reported to inhibit the invasion and metastasis of HCC in vitro and in vivo. The gene discussed is MMP2; the disease is hepatocellular carcinoma.