The function of the ECM is affected by the dynamic balance between MMPs (matrix metalloproteinase) and TIMPs (tissue inhibitor of matrix metalloproteinases), and a systematic review and meta‐analysis involving 1320 patients with pituitary adenomas found elevated expression levels of MMP‐9 and MMP‐2 in patients with invasive pituitary adenomas, but no difference in TIMPs.57 The gene discussed is MMP9; the disease is pituitary gland adenoma.