TIMM8A and neoplasm: Multiple in vivo studies have reported an increased expression of MT-1 and MT-2 isoforms in tumor-associated angiogenesis; MTs may increase the synthesis and expression of fibroblast growth factors (FGFs), as well as other factors including transforming growth factor (TGF-β) and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), resulting in the stimulation of tumor growth and better vascular supply [42].