Matrix Metalloproteinases (MMPs) are proteolytic
enzymes that play a major role in resorption of collagen
and other components of the extracellular matrix.
MMP-2 have the ability to degrade basement
membranes and may then play an important role in extracellular
matrix turnover in liver fibrosis and carcin-
°genesis. The present study aimed to examine the possible
involvement of MMP-2 in the development of
liver diseases caused by HCV infection. Serum activities
of MMP-2 enzyme were studied by enzyme immunoassay
(ETA) in sera from patients with HCV and
HCC on top of HCV. This study included 46 Egyptian
patients presenting with either chronic hepatitis C infection
(HCV) or hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC).
Eighteen subjects were included as control group. Serum
levels of MMP-2 were found to be significantly
higher in both patient groups as compared to the control
group. However, there was no significant difference
between HCV and HCC patient groups. There
was a significant positive correlation between serum
levels of MMP-2 and severity of the liver disease as
shown in its significant relationship with other liver
function tests but no correlation was found with alpha
fetoprotein (ALP) levels. In conclusion, serum level of
MMP-2 is elevated in patients with chronic hepatitis C
and HCC than in control subjects with no statistical
difference between both groups. Also, serum level of
MMP-2 is correlated with the degree of liver cirrhosis,
as it is highest in Child C patients. Serum MMP-2 level
could be used as a substitute for liver biopsy in
assessment of the extent of liver fibrosis but can not be
used as a diagnostic marker for HCC in chronic
hepatitis patients. |
