Correlative Analysis of MMP-2 and MMP-9 Expression with Serum β-hCG Levels in Invasive Gestational Trophoblastic Disease Prognosis and Progression

Abstract

Background: Invasive Gestational Trophoblastic Disease (IGTD) is a rare but aggressive condition characterized by the abnormal growth of trophoblastic tissue, often leading to metastasis. Serum β-hCG levels and MMP expression are critical biomarkers for understanding its prognosis. Objective: This study aimed to evaluate the correlation between MMP-2 and MMP-9 expression and serum β-hCG levels in IGTD, focusing on their role in disease prognosis and progression. Methods: A total of 188 patients diagnosed with IGTD were recruited from the Department of Gynecologic and Obstetric, Baylor College of Medicine, from January 2020 to June 2022. MMP-2 and MMP-9 expression in tumor tissues was assessed using immunohistochemistry, while serum β-hCG levels were measured via ELISA. Statistical analysis was performed using Pearson’s correlation, paired t-test, and multiple regression analysis. Standard deviation and p-value were calculated to evaluate the significance of the correlation between MMP expressions and β-hCG levels. Results: A significant positive correlation was observed between MMP-2 expression and serum β-hCG levels (r = 0.72, p < 0.001). Similarly, MMP-9 expression showed a strong correlation with β-hCG levels (r = 0.68, p < 0.001). In patients with elevated MMP-2 and MMP-9, the progression rate of IGTD was significantly higher (62%) compared to those with lower MMP expressions (36%). Standard deviation for β-hCG levels was 38.2, and for MMP-2 and MMP-9 was 24.5 and 18.3, respectively. Regression analysis further confirmed the predictive value of these biomarkers for disease severity and metastasis (p < 0.05). Conclusion: The findings highlight that MMP-2 and MMP-9 expression are reliable indicators for IGTD prognosis, correlating strongly with serum β-hCG levels, aiding in better prediction and treatment planning