Clin Chem Lab Med
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Leiomyomas growth involves cellular hypertrophy, modulation of mitotic activity and upregulation of extracellular matrix (ECM). Vascular factors and matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) play a coordinated role during neoplasia and tissue remodeling. The present study investigates the role of angiogenic factor vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF)-A with the activity of main gelatinases, MMP-2/MMP-9 and their tissue inhibitor TIMP-1 in patients with leiomyomas. ⋯ This study demonstrates a possible coordinated role of VEGF-A and MMP-2 during uterine leiomyomas growth and angiogenesis with potential prognostic significance.