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Adipose tissue is not an important source for matrix metalloproteinase-9 in the circulation

Anders Gummesson1, Daniel Hagg, Fredrik J Olson

  • 1Department of Molecular and Clinical Medicine, Center for Cardiovascular and Metabolic Research, The Sahlgrenska Academy at Gothenburg University, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden. anders.gummesson@gu.se

Scandinavian Journal of Clinical and Laboratory Investigation
|July 4, 2009
PubMed
Abstract

Insights

Adipose tissue does not significantly impact circulating matrix metalloproteinase 9 (MMP-9) levels. Metabolic syndrome factors, not adiposity, influence MMP-9, suggesting its potential as a biomarker is not compromised by adipose tissue.

Area of Science:

  • Biochemistry
  • Molecular Biology
  • Endocrinology

Background:

  • Matrix metalloproteinase 9 (MMP-9) is implicated as a biomarker in atherosclerosis and cancer.
  • Adipose tissue (AT) production of MMP-9 could potentially confound its use as a biomarker.
  • The influence of AT and metabolic syndrome on circulating MMP-9 requires clarification.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the impact of adipose tissue on circulating MMP-9 levels.
  • To determine if metabolic syndrome modifies the relationship between AT and MMP-9.
  • To assess MMP-9 as a biomarker in the context of metabolic syndrome and obesity.

Main Methods:

  • Real-time PCR to quantify MMP-9 gene expression in various human tissues, including AT and isolated adipocytes.
  • ELISA to measure plasma MMP-9 concentrations in a cohort of 61-year-old men (n=513).
  • Analysis of associations between plasma MMP-9, adiposity, and metabolic syndrome, including obese subjects undergoing dietary weight reduction.

Main Results:

  • MMP-9 mRNA levels were significantly higher in bone marrow, atherosclerotic plaques, and macrophages compared to subcutaneous AT.
  • Plasma MMP-9 concentrations in older men correlated with metabolic syndrome factors and inflammatory markers, but not BMI.
  • In obese patients with metabolic syndrome, AT MMP-9 mRNA and circulating MMP-9 decreased with weight loss, independent of BMI changes.

Conclusions:

  • Adipose tissue itself is not directly associated with circulating MMP-9 levels.
  • Circulating insulin and glucose, key components of metabolic syndrome, are linked to plasma MMP-9.
  • These findings suggest that MMP-9's utility as a biomarker is not diminished by adipose tissue, but is influenced by metabolic state.

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