MMP9 and neoplasm: In this context, the LCN2–SLC22A17–MMP9 (lipocalin 2—solute carrier family 22 member 17—matrix metallopeptidase 9) pathway contributes to the establishment and remodeling of TME, which is responsible for the tumor progression (Kessenbrock et al., 2010; Crescenzi et al., 2021).