MMP2 and cancer: As such, increased MMP levels in cancer patients are often associated with poor prognosis.50 Glioma cells express various MMPs, with MMP2 reported to degrade ECM components most effectively.49,51 Our results showed a positive correlation between FLNC level and MMP2 expression and activation, suggesting that FLNC promotes GBM metastasis by stimulating the degradation of the ECM.