Is neutrophil granulocyte derived MMP-9 a VEGF independent functional component of the angiogenic switch in pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma?
PMN derived MMP-9 acts as a potent, direct and VEGF independent angiogenic factor in the context of PDAC. MMP-9 inhibition is as effective as VEGF inhibition. Targeting MMP-9 in addition to VEGF is therefore likely to be important for successful anti-angiogenic treatment in pancreatic cancer.
Our results indicate that the duration of the paced QRS complex may be a valuable parameter to predict arrhythmic risk in patients with nonischemic heart disease. Further prospective studies in larger trials are necessary to corroborate this investigation.