Changes in the levels of N-cadherin and PCNA in skin melanoma cells are mediated through matrix metalloproteinase 9.

Immunohistochemical studies revealed increased level of matrix metalloproteinase 9 in skin melanoma cells. Inhibition of matrix metalloproteinase 9 with interfering RNA changed the level of PCNA and reduced N-cadherin content in melanoma cells. This attests to the involvement of matrix metalloproteinase 9 in the realization of invasion and metastatic growth and in the regulation of tumor growth and progress.