Indices of matrix metalloproteinases (MMP-2, MMP-9, TIMP-1) with juvenile arthritis in children

Abstract

One of the perspectives of modem rheumatology is the study of matrix metalloproteinases (MMP) in juvenile arthritis - enzymes that play a key role in the process ofjoint destruction. Aim. To analyse the content of matrix MMP-2 and MMP-9 and their tissue inhibitor (TIMP-1) in blood serum and synovial fluid in various embodiments of juvenile arthritis in children. Patients and Methods. The study involved 82 children with juvenile arthritis, and 20 healthy children. The level of MMP-2, MMP-9 and TIMP-1 were determined in serum and synovial fluid by ELISA. Results. It was found out that with any form of arthritis serum concentrations of MMP-2, MMP-9 and TIMP-1 was significantly higher than control values, but the level of MMP-2 in a subset of enthesitis-related arthritis, didn't differ from the control. Studied parameters in the synovial fluid were much higher than the serum level. With the development of uveitis TIMP-1 in blood serum was lower than in the absence of eye damage. On treatment of patients significant changes in the studied enzymes weren't established. On a good response to therapy the level of MMP-9 in serum decreased, on the lack of effectiveness - increased. Conclusions. The analysis results confirm the involvement of MMP-2, MMP-9 and TIMP-1 in the processes of inflammatory changes of the joints in juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA) and reactive arthritis, regardless the patlents'sex or age.