Expression and activity levels of matrix metalloproteinase-7 and in situ localization of caseinolytic activity in colorectal cancer.

•MMP-7 mRNA and protein expression levels are increased in colorectal cancer.•MMP-7 mRNA expressions are related with late tumor stage and younger patients.•Increased pro and active MMP-7 levels are found in colorectal tumor tissues.•MMP-7 mRNA expression is a potential marker for diagnosis of colorectal adenocarcinoma.•Increment of local caseinolytic activity is detected in colorectal tumor sections.