Serum levels of matrix metalloproteinases-2 and-9 and their tissue inhibitors in inflammatory neuromuscular disorders

We monitored serum levels of matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) and
their tissue inhibitors (TIMPs) before and during intravenously
applied immunoglobulin (IVIG) therapy in 33 patients with chronic
immune-mediated neuropathies and myopathies and 15 controls.
Baseline MMP-2 and TIMP-2 serum levels were lower and MMP-9 and
TIMP-1 serum levels higher in all patients compared to age-matched
controls. Eight days after IVIG treatment, MMP-2, TIMP-2, and
TIMP-1 serum levels increased, while MMP-9 serum levels decreased,
indicating tissue repair. After 60 days, MMP-9 levels increased,
MMP-2 approached normal levels, while TIMP-1 and TIMP-2 serum
levels were below day 8 levels, indicating relapsing tissue damage.
Comparing the MMP/TIMP results with the clinical courses, IVIG
treatment tended to change MMP/TIMP levels in a way that paralleled
clinical improvement and relapse. In sum, during a distinct time
period, IVIG therapy seems to be able to modulate VIMP-mediated
tissue repair. Copyright (c) 2006 S. Karger AG, Basel.