Circulating matrix metalloproteinases and procollagen propeptides in inguinal hernia

Area of Science:

• Biochemistry
• Medical Diagnostics
• Surgical Pathology

Background:

• Collagen degradation is implicated in inguinal hernia pathogenesis.
• Biomarkers are needed to differentiate primary from recurrent inguinal hernias.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate circulating biomarkers: PINP, PIIINP, MMP-2, MMP-9, copper, and zinc.
• To assess these biomarkers in primary and recurrent inguinal hernia patients.

Main Methods:

• Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) for PINP, PIIINP, MMP-2, MMP-9.
• Atomic absorption spectrometry for copper and zinc.
• Analysis of 110 inguinal hernia patients and 45 controls.

Main Results:

• Serum MMP-2 levels were higher in direct and recurrent inguinal hernias compared to controls.
• The PINP/PIIINP ratio was significantly lower in recurrent hernia groups.
• PINP/PIIINP ratio showed high accuracy in diagnosing recurrent hernias (AUC 0.919 for indirect, 0.808 for direct).

Conclusions:

• A lower serum PINP/PIIINP ratio suggests more severe collagen metabolism damage in recurrent inguinal hernias.
• The PINP/PIIINP ratio is a potential diagnostic marker for recurrent inguinal hernia.