Influence of TIMP-1/MMP-9 ratio on the severity and mortality in sepsis

The role of matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) and tissue inhibitors of matrix metalloproteinases (TIMPs) in sepsis remains unclear. MMPs play a role facilitating the recruitment of leucocytes from the bloodstream (by proteolysis of the basement membrane) and modulating inflammatory response [1]. Besides, there has been reported a positive association between circulating levels of TIMP-1 and plasminogen activator inhibitor (PAI)-1 in healthy adults [2] and myocardial infarction [3]. In addition there are in vitro studies showing that MMP-9 inhibits platelet aggregation [4,5]. Thus a high TIMP-1/MMP-9 ratio could contribute to a prothrombotic state, and the development of organ dysfunction and finally death in septic patients. The objectives of this study were to investigate the time course of MMP-9, MMP-10 and TIMP-1 levels, and the association with sepsis severity and PAI-1 levels.