Correlation between CXCR-4 and MMP-9 expression with regional lymph node metastasis in colorectal adenocarcinoma (CXCR4 and MMP9 in colorectal adenocarcinoma)

Regional lymph node metastasis (RLNM) is a critical factor influencing the prognosis of colorectal adenocarcinoma. Identifying biomarkers associated with lymph node metastasis is essential for enhancing diagnostic and therapeutic approaches. This study investigates the relationship between the expression of CXCR4 and MMP-9 and RLNM in colorectal adenocarcinoma. Using a crosssectional analytical observational design, paraffin embedded samples from patients diagnosed at Dr. Soetomo General Academic Hospital between January 2017 and December 2021 were analyzed. Samples were categorized into three groups based on metastasis stages (N0, N1, N2). Immunohistochemical staining was employed to assess CXCR4 and MMP-9 expression levels. The Spearman correlation test was utilized to evaluate the relationship between these expressions and the N stage, with correlation coefficients (ρ) reported for strength of association. Results indicated a statistically significant positive correlation between CXCR4 expression and the N stage (ρ = 0.312, p = 0.049). Similarly, MMP-9 expression also showed a significantcorrelation with the N stage (ρ = 0.354, p = 0.032). Notably, a robust correlation was observed between CXCR4 and MMP-9 expressions (ρ = 0.421, p = 0.015). These findings suggest that both CXCR4 and MMP-9 play significant roles in lymph node metastasis and tumor progression in colorectal adenocarcinoma, indicating their potential as biomarkers or therapeutic targets for managing RLNM.