Matrix metalloproteinase 9 level predicts optimal collagen deposition during early wound repair in humans

This study examined two matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) and their association with deposition of collagen during wound repair.

In 15 hernia wounds, wound fluid was collected using two Cellstick devices, which were implanted adjacent to two expanded polytetrafluoroethylene (ePTFE) tubes. MMP-2 and MMP-9 levels were analysed 24 and 48 h after operation using specific enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays, and collagen deposition in the ePTFE tubes was measured 10 days after operation as hydroxyproline.

The levels of both MMPs in wound fluid were increased compared with those of control serum, although MMP-9 decreased (P < 0.01) in the wounds 24-48 h after operation. The MMP-9 level at 24 h correlated inversely and specifically to deposited collagen measured as hydroxyproline (rs = -0.80, P < 0.01).

These results indicate that the level of MMP-9 in the early inflammatory phase can predict the amount of collagen deposited later in the wound healing process.