We propose that HSF1 is activated in response to inflammation, driving the transcription of genes encoding matrix proteins (FN1, LAMA1), matrix remodeling enzymes (MMP7, MMP9), and matrix chaperones (SERPINH1/HSP47), inducing inflammation in a non-cell-autonomous manner (S100A8/9, LCN2), and eventually leading to cancer. The gene discussed is MMP7; the disease is cancer.