MMP-9/BDNF ratio predicts more severe COVID-19 outcomes

Area of Science:

• Biochemistry
• Immunology
• Pathophysiology

Background:

• COVID-19 involves complex immune responses, leading to inflammation and tissue damage.
• Matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) and Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor A (VEGF A) are implicated in COVID-19 pathogenesis.
• Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor (BDNF) may play a role in predicting COVID-19 complications.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the relationship between MMP-9, VEGF A, BDNF, and MMP-8 with COVID-19 severity.
• To identify a potential biomarker for simplifying COVID-19 patient stratification.

Main Methods:

• Serum concentrations of MMP-9, MMP-8, VEGF A, and BDNF were measured in 77 COVID-19 patients across mild to critical severity groups.
• Patients were classified into severity groups upon hospital admission before therapy.
• Statistical analysis, including correlation and ROC curve analysis, was performed.

Main Results:

• Significantly elevated serum levels of MMP-9, MMP-8, and VEGF A were observed in severe and critically ill COVID-19 patients.
• BDNF levels did not show significant variations across severity groups.
• A decreased MMP-9/BDNF ratio was found in severe and critical cases, correlating positively with other measured parameters.
• The MMP-9/BDNF ratio demonstrated potential in differentiating COVID-19 severity stages via ROC analysis.

Conclusions:

• The MMP-9/BDNF ratio is significantly altered in severe COVID-19.
• This ratio shows promise as a novel, systemic biomarker for precise COVID-19 staging and severity assessment.