MMP2 and neoplasm: 167 Studies show that they inhibit angiogenesis, induced by tumor cells in mice, by significantly lowering the secretion of the major angiogenic factor produced by tumors: interleukin (IL)-8. 168,169 Previous research reveals that interferons-α/β can inhibit tumor angiogenesis by downregulating translational expression of bFGF/FGF-2 and reducing expression of the MMP-2 gene, making them potential candidates for antiangiogenic treatments. 166,170-175 Other research, however, suggests the mechanism of IFN-α is not mediated by bFGF or VEGF. 176-178