In this study, we analyzed the expressing pattern of MMPs in ESCC specimens based on TCGA datasets and identified 12 dysregulated MMPs in ESCC, including MMP1, MMP12, MMP20, MMP17, MMP14, MMP11, MMP10, MMP13, MMP9, MMP8, MMP7, and MMP3. Here, MMP12 is linked to esophageal squamous cell carcinoma.