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Serum MMP-9 and TIMP-1 concentrations and MMP-9 activity during surgery-induced inflammation in humans

Johanna Helmersson-Karlqvist1, Torbjörn Akerfeldt, Lena Gunningberg

  • 1Department of Medical Sciences, Clinical Chemistry, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden. johanna.helmersson_karlqvist@medsci.uu.se

Clinical Chemistry and Laboratory Medicine
|June 19, 2012
PubMed
Abstract

Insights

Post-surgery inflammation involves increased matrix metalloproteinase 9 (MMP-9) and tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinase 1 (TIMP-1) activity. While MMP-9 levels remain high, its activity doesn't correlate with concentrations 30 days post-operation.

Area of Science:

  • Biochemistry
  • Immunology
  • Surgical Research

Background:

  • Matrix metalloproteinase 9 (MMP-9) and tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinase 1 (TIMP-1) are key regulators of tissue remodeling.
  • Their roles in inflammation and disease are established, but their temporal dynamics during inflammatory responses remain unclear.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the time course of MMP-9 and TIMP-1 concentrations and MMP-9 activity following major elective surgery.
  • To understand the relationship between these markers and the inflammatory state induced by surgery.

Main Methods:

  • Serum samples were collected from patients undergoing coronary artery bypass (n=21) or orthopedic surgery (n=29) preoperatively, and 4 and 30 days postoperatively.
  • MMP-9 and TIMP-1 concentrations, along with MMP-9 activity, were analyzed at these time points.

Main Results:

  • Serum TIMP-1 and MMP-9 activity significantly increased by day 4 post-surgery, then decreased by day 30.
  • Serum MMP-9 concentrations also increased significantly by day 4 and remained elevated at day 30.
  • The MMP-9/TIMP-1 ratio was significantly higher 30 days post-surgery compared to pre-surgery.

Conclusions:

  • The inflammatory response to elective surgery involves a transient increase in TIMP-1 and MMP-9 activity within days, potentially aiding healing.
  • Elevated MMP-9 concentrations at 30 days post-surgery did not correspond to increased MMP-9 activity.
  • Serum MMP-9 levels or the MMP-9/TIMP-1 ratio may not fully reflect MMP-9 activity during surgery-induced inflammation.

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