Infection with Helicobacter pylori increases the production and secretion of MMP7 from gastric epithelial cells.11, 12, 13 Secreted MMP7 liberates IGF-II from IGF binding protein 5 (IGFBP-5) (which is released from subepithelial cells) and stimulates the expansion and migration of cells in the surrounding gastric microenvironment.14 This evidence concerns the gene MMP7 and infection.