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Updated: May 15, 2026

Bacterial Expression and Purification of Human Matrix Metalloproteinase-3 using Affinity Chromatography
Published on: March 30, 2022
Circulating matrix metalloproteinase MMP-9 and MMP-2/TIMP-2 complex are associated with spontaneous early pregnancy
Ritva Nissi1, Anne Talvensaari-Mattila, Vesa Kotila
1Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Oulu University Hospital, Kajaanintie 52A, Oulu, 90220, Finland. ritva.nissi@oulu.fi
Background:
Trophoblast cell (CTB) invasion into the maternal endometrium plays a crucial role during human embryo implantation and placentation. This invasion is facilitated by the activity of matrix metalloproteinases, which are regulated by tissue inhibitors of MMPs (TIMPs).
Methods:
This study compares the serum levels of MMP-9, MMP-2/TIMP-2 complex, TIMP-1 and TIMP-2 in 129 patients with ongoing pregnancy (n = 40) or spontaneous early pregnancy failure (n = 89).
Results:
MMP-9 was markedly (p < 0.0001) elevated in missed abortions, as was MMP-2/TIMP-2 complex (p < 0.0005). However, the serum levels of TIMP-1 and TIMP-2 were markedly elevated (p < 0.0001) in ongoing pregnancies.
Conclusions:
Human placentation is mediated by fetal trophoblastic cells that invade the maternal uterine endometrium. Trophoblast invasion requires a precisely regulated secretion of specific proteolytic enzymes able to degrade the endometrial basement membrane and extracellular matrix. The elevated levels of MMP-9 and MMP-2/TIMP-2 complex may play a role in spontaneous termination of pregnancy.
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