Objective:To investigate the expressions of PC cell-derived growth factor(PCDGF) and matrix metalloproteinase-9(MMP-9) in squamous cell carcinoma of tongue(SCCT) and their relationship with clinical pathological parameters of SCCT.Methods:Immunohistochemical staining was used to examine the expressions of PCDGF and MMP-9 in 45 cases of SCCT and 12 specimens of normal tongue tissue.Results:PCDGF and MMP-9 proteins were abnormally increased in SCCT as compared with normal tongue tissue(P<0.05).PCDGF and MMP-9 protein expressions were increased with the increase in the invasive depth of SCCT(P<0.05).PCDGF and MMP-9 protein expressions were significantly higher in SCCT with nodal metastasis and at Ⅲ～Ⅳ clinical stage than those without nodal metastasis and at Ⅰ～Ⅱ clinical stage(P<0.05).The positive expressions of PCDGF and MMP-9 proteins were not related to the age

gender

and differentiation of SCCT patients(P>0.05).The Spearman analysis indicated that the expression level of PCDGF was positively correlated with that of MMP-9 significantly in SCCT(rs=0.543

P<0.01).Conclusion:PCDGF and MMP-9 may cooperate with each other and play an important role in the development

invasion and metastasis of SCCT.