MMP2 and neoplasm: Upon stimulation, STAT3 becomes phosphorylated by the receptor associated kinases on a unique tyrosine, and then forms homo‐ or heterodimers that are translocated to the nucleus where they regulate the transcription of specific target genes, such as cyclin D1, B‐cell lymphoma‐2 (Bcl‐2), B‐cell lymphoma‐extra large (Bcl‐xL), matrix metalloprotein‐2 (MMP2), and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF).35 Increased levels of phosphorylated STAT3 have been detected in the majority of human tumours and tumour cell lines.