OBJECTIVETo investigate the relationship between matrix metalloproteinase-2 (MMP-2)activity and cell proliferation, growth and invasion of ameloblastoma.

METHODSThe cells and xenograft of ameloblastoma were treated with MMP-2 inhibitor Ro31-9790 and the effects of Ro31-9790 on the cell proliferation and growth of ameloblastoma were observed. Primary culture in vitro, subcapsular kidney xenograft in vivo, MTT assay, flow cytometry, neoplastic volume measurement and histochemistry were employed to study the effects of cell proliferation and growth produced by Ro31-9790.

RESULTSThere was no significant different in cell proliferation at same interval among several groups (P > 0.05). The ratio of G0/G1 stage, G2/M stage and apoptotic cells didn't increase following increased Ro31-9790, and the ratio of S stage cells also didn't reduce following increased Ro31-9790. The tumor volume and its increase in treatment group were significant less than those in control group.

CONCLUSIONRo31-9790 does not influence proliferation of ameloblastoma cells in vitro, but it can effectively inhibit the ameloblastoma growth in vivo. MMP-2 activity has no relationship to proliferation of ameloblastoma cells, but it can contribute to the ameloblastoma growth and may be a reason of invasion in ameloblastoma.