Vitreous MMP-2, TIMP-1, and TIMP-2 Levels in Vitreoretinal Pathologies: A Prospective Analysis of 181 Eyes

Little is known about the role of matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) and their inhibitors (TIMPs) in the vitreous and retinal environments. This study aimed to assess the vitreous levels of members of the MMP and TIMP families in patients who were scheduled to undergo pars plana vitrectomy (PPV). Prospectively, all patients scheduled for PPV and who met the inclusion criteria were invited. The included retinal conditions were advanced proliferative diabetic retinopathy (PDR), rhegmatogenous retinal detachment (RRD), vitreomacular interface diseases, endophthalmitis, and dropped crystalline lenses. Undiluted vitreous samples were obtained during the early stage of PPV. The levels of TIMP1, TIMP2, MMP2, and TIMP2/MMP2 ratio were measured using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). A total of 181 eyes were included in this study. The levels of TIMP2 and the TIMP2/MMP2 ratio were significantly higher in the advanced PDR group than in the other groups. Significantly, TIMP2 and TIMP2/MMP2 levels were highest in the endophthalmitis group, whereas MMP2 levels were highest in the dropped crystalline lenses group. The presence of diabetes mellitus and of preoperative glaucoma were significantly associated with higher TIMP1 levels. In RRD cases alone, all biomarkers were significantly elevated with higher PVR grades. Furthermore, TIMP1 and MMP2 correlated with macular detachment. A relationship between the vitreous levels of MMPs and TIMPs and the pathogenesis of vitreoretinal pathology may exist. Further studies and trials are recommended to explore the potential use of MMPs and TIMPs in the diagnosis, prognosis, and treatment of eye diseases.