MMP2 and neoplasm: In the present study, we evaluated the association between the 3'UTR genotype of TS and methylation status of 8 tumor-related genes, including hTERT, hMLH1, MSH2, MMP2, CDH1, p14, p16, and p21 in CRC patients to define the possible molecular mechanisms that associate the TS 3′UTR genotype and CRC susceptibility.