Matrix Metalloproteinase Polymorphisms as Genetic Risk Factors for Anterior Cruciate Ligament Injuries in Football...

Area of Science:

• Genetics
• Sports Medicine
• Biochemistry

Background:

• Anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injuries are common in athletes, leading to long-term issues like osteoarthritis.
• Extracellular matrix (ECM) remodeling, regulated by matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs), is crucial for ACL integrity.
• Genetic predispositions may influence ACL injury susceptibility.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the association between specific matrix metalloproteinase (MMP) gene polymorphisms (MMP1 rs1799750, MMP10 rs486055, MMP12 rs2276109) and anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury outcomes.
• To determine if these polymorphisms correlate with ACL injury frequency, strain, partial rupture, or complete rupture.

Main Methods:

• A case-control study involving 296 physically active Caucasian males (160 with ACL injuries, 136 healthy controls).
• Genotyping was performed for MMP1 rs1799750, MMP10 rs486055, and MMP12 rs2276109 polymorphisms.
• Statistical analysis, including odds ratios (OR) and adjusted p-values (Padj), was used to assess associations.

Main Results:

• The MMP1 rs1799750 polymorphism demonstrated a protective effect against ACL injury (OR = 0.42, Padj = 0.014).
• MMP10 rs486055 was significantly associated with an increased risk of partial ACL rupture, particularly in heterozygous carriers (OR = 3.47, p = 0.001).
• MMP12 rs2276109 was linked to a higher frequency of ACL injuries (OR = 3.80, p = 0.0009) but not severity.

Conclusions:

• MMP1 rs1799750 polymorphism is associated with a reduced risk of ACL injury.
• MMP10 rs486055 polymorphism is linked to an increased risk of partial ACL rupture.
• MMP12 rs2276109 polymorphism is associated with a higher frequency of ACL injuries.
• These genetic factors may contribute to personalized injury prevention and rehabilitation strategies for athletes.