Matrix metalloproteinase 3 facilitates colorectal cancer progression by enhancing cell proliferation and invasion

Figure 4 Matrix metalloproteinase 3 knockdown impairs tumor growth in a colorectal cancer xenograft model. A: Representative images of subcutaneous tumors derived from control and matrix metalloproteinase 3 (MMP3)-knockdown SW620 cells in nude mice (n = 5); B and C: Tumor volume measurements and growth curves recorded over time; D: Immunohistochemical staining of MMP3, EPAS1, and Ki-67 in xenograft tumor sections; E: TUNEL staining indicating apoptotic cell death in tumor tissues; F: Western blot analysis of MMP3 and EPAS1 protein levels in excised tumors; G: Tumor weight measurements in the xenograft model. MMP3: Matrix metalloproteinase 3.