MMP7 and cancer: For instance, in various cancers, matrix metalloproteinase-7 secretion by malignant cells induces the production of elevated vascular endothelial growth factor by tumor associated fibroblasts resulting in the formation of blood vessels to nourish the new lesion [148] as well as the secondary impact of matrix metalloproteinase-7 being the degradation of extracellular matrix components which permits lesion growth and remodeling as well as preventing some forms of apoptosis in malignant cells [149].