Among matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs), thesecreted gelatinases MMP-2 and MMP-9 are responsible for the degradation of gelatinin the extracellular matrix and type IV collagen in the basement membrane; and thisdegradation event is crucial for the migration from the origin and the invasion intothe bone in HNSCC. The gene discussed is MMP2; the disease is head and neck squamous cell carcinoma.