MMP14

One of the most striking findings was the increased expression of genes involved in extracellular matrix, ECM, remodeling and collagen production.

Tumor-associated MECs showed elevated levels of multiple collagen genes, matrix metalloproteinases, MMP2, MMP9, MMP11, and MMP14, and ECM-associated proteins such as SPARC and lumican.

At the same time, these cells demonstrated reduced expression of traditional epithelial markers, including KRT5, KRT7, and KRT14.

This combination of changes suggests a transition away from their normal barrier-forming role and toward a more mesenchymal fibroblast-like phenotype that may contribute to tumor progression.