Abstract

Background

Metastasis is a complex multistep process that requires sequential interactions between the invasive cell and the extracellular matrix (ECM). The remodeling of the ECM is carried out by a family of enzymes known as matrix metalloproteinases (MMP). MMPs can collectively degrade any component of ECM and basement membrane, and their excessive activity has been linked to numerous pathologies mainly including, but not limited to, tumor invasion and metastasis. The activation of MMP is regulated by gene expression, proenzyme activation and inhibition of active enzymes by their endogenous tissue inhibitors of metalloproteinases (TIMPs). Specifically, TIMP1 inhibits MMP-9 activity whereas TIMP2 regulates MMP-2 activity. TIPMs are also involved in the regulation of cell proliferation, apoptosis and angiogenesis. MMP-9 were shown to play a direct role in angiogenesis which require for tumor growth and metastasis. The aim of this study was to evaluate MMP 9, TIMP1 and TIMP2 levels in the serum of patients with meningioma.

Method

Forty five and 41 serum samples from control and patients with meningioma were included in this study, respectively. The level of MMP9, TIMP1 and TIMP2 was determined by enzyme linked immunosorbent assay.

Results

The concentration of MMP9 in the serum of patients with meningioma was significantly increased as compared to controls (P<0.001). However, significant decrease in the TIMP1 and TIMP2 serum concentration was seen in meningioma patients as compared to controls (P=0.02).

Conclusion

It is concluded that MMP9, TIMP1 and TIMP2 is a constant composition of human serum. It is also suggested that MMP9, TIMP1 and TIMP2 might be important in the pathophysiology of meningioma and the detection of serum MMP9, TIMP1 and TIMP2 may provide a reliable and practical indicator of malignant potential and tumor progression.