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Circulating matrix metalloproteinase-9 is transiently elevated after colorectal surgery
I H J T de Hingh1, E T Waas, R M L M Lomme
1Department of Surgery, University Medical Center Nijmegen, PO Box 9101, Nijmegen, The Netherlands.
International Journal of Colorectal Disease
|February 27, 2004
Summary
Surgery significantly increases plasma matrix metalloproteinase-9 (MMP-9) levels temporarily. Postoperative MMP-9 levels in patients undergoing colorectal surgery should be interpreted cautiously due to this transient surgical effect.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Surgical Research
- Biochemistry
Background:
- Plasma matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) are potential biomarkers in colorectal cancer.
- The impact of surgical procedures on circulating MMP levels remains largely uncharacterized.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the effect of surgical interventions on plasma levels of MMP-2 and MMP-9.
Main Methods:
- Quantitative gelatin zymography was employed to measure plasma gelatinase activity.
- Plasma samples were collected from 128 patients undergoing elective surgery (colorectal cancer, liver metastases, hip arthrosis) preoperatively and at 1 week, 1 month, and 3 months postoperatively.
Main Results:
- A significant transient increase in proMMP-9 activity was observed 1 week after all types of surgery, including colorectal and liver surgery.
- ProMMP-9 levels returned to baseline by 1 month postoperatively.
- No significant changes in proMMP-2 activity were detected following surgery.
Conclusions:
- Surgical procedures induce a pronounced but temporary elevation in plasma MMP-9 activity.
- Interpreting postoperative plasma MMP levels for disease assessment requires careful consideration of the transient surgical influence.