Matrix metalloproteinase 9 as a biomarker for breast cancer onset and metastasis

Many proteins in the body have sugar chains attached which ensure that the protein is able to “work” properly but can also be altered uniquely in disease. Matrix metalloproteinase 9 (MMP-9) is a type of protein called an enzyme which increases in amount in breast cancer. This project will look at the sugar chains attached to MMP-9 in breast cancer and see if any changes can be linked to the onset and spread (metastasis) of breast cancer. There is currently no serum biomarker for breast cancer, therefore this research could result in the development of a test for the disease.