CD44 and cancer: Karadag et al. (2005) suggested that DMP1 could enhance the invasion potential of cancer cells by bridging MMP-9 to the colon cell surface through αvβ3-integrin, αvβ5-integrin, and/or CD44. Our results suggest that DMP1 may also serve as a prognosis-associated gene in OSCC and LSCC. Further studies are required to determine the role of DMP1 in HNSCC progression.