Correlation of serum Matrix metalloproteinase-9 and clinico-functional parameters in COPD patients

Background: Inflammation and oxidative stress in COPD alters proteasis/antiproteasis balance. Matrix metalloproteinase -9 (MMP-9) has a significant role in augmentation of inflammatory process, matrix turnover and lung repair. Aim: of this study was to assess serum levels of MMP-9 and tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinase -1 (TIMP-1) and its association with lung function and clinical parameters. We hypothesized that elevated levels of MMP-9 will be identified in patients with most pronounced impairment of lung function, increased burden of symptoms and more frequent acute exacerbations in COPD patients (AECOPD). Methods: We measured serum levels of MMP-9, TIMP-1 and ratio MMP-9/TIMP-1 in group of 98 COPD participants and 47 healthy controls. In COPD group pulmonary function tests (post-bronchodilator spirometry, single breath diffusion capacity for carbon monoxide (CO) and body pletismography) were performed. Symptoms were assessed by Modified Medical Research Council (mMRC) scale and COPD Assessment Test (CAT). All moderate to severe COPD exacerbations in previous year were recorded. Results: Subjects with COPD had significantly higher serum MMP-9, TIMP-1 and MMP-9 / TIMP-1 ratio compared to healthy control (p Conclusion: These results may indicate the possible role of MMP-9 in the pathophysiology of airway remodeling in COPD.