Circulating levels of GDF15, MMP7 and miR-200c as a poor prognostic signature in gastric cancer.

Aim: To analyze GDF15 and MMP7 serum levels as diagnostic biomarkers in gastric cancer (GC) patients. The prognostic value of GDF15 and MMP7 serum levels in combination with miR-200c blood expression was also analyzed. Patients & methods: Fifty-two GC and 23 control samples were included. Results: GDF15 and MMP7 proved to be powerful tools for GC diagnosis. Increased levels of GDF15 and MMP7 were associated with shorter progression-free survival and overall survival in univariate analysis. In multivariate analysis, the combination of high levels of GDF15, MMP7 and miR-200c was an independent predictor for death (p = 0.033). Conclusion: GDF15 and MMP7 serum levels have diagnostic value for GC. The combination marker formed by GDF15, MMP7 and miR-200c is indicative of adverse evolution in GC patients.