Introduction: In the last years it has been proved that matrix metalloproteinases participate in the development of all stages of atherosclerotic process. It has been suggested that plasma levels of metalloproteinases can be a novel, inflammatory marker of atherosclerosis. THE AIM OF THE STUDY was to evaluate plasma levels of selected matrix metalloproteinases (MMP-2 and MMP-9) in obese children and adolescents.
Material and methods: We studied 45 children and adolescents with simple obesity aged 15+/-1.8 years. The control group comprised 28 healthy, slim children aged 14.5 years. The obese children were studied according to coexistence of hypertension, hyperlipidemia, positive family history of cardiovascular diseases and insulin resistance. Levels of matrix metalloproteinases were assessed by use of ready ELISA kits (R&D Systems).
Results: MMP-9 level in the study group equaled 553.5+/-311 ng/ml and was significantly higher compared to the control group: 400.4+/-204 ng/ml, p=0.02. MMP-2 level in the study group was significantly lower compared to the control group: 211+/-37 ng/ml vs. 258+/-56 ng/ml, p<0,0001. In obese children with coexisting hypertension we found higher levels of MMP-9 when compared to children with obesity only: 635+/-308 ng/ml vs. 450+/-289 ng/ml (p=0,04), MMP-2 levels remained similar in both groups.
Conclusions: Different levels of plasma matrix metalloproteinases in obese and hypertensive children compared to healthy, slim controls can indicate an altered metabolism of the extracellular matrix (ECM) of vessels and heart muscle. Changed metabolism of ECM may be of significant importance in enhancing the atherosclerotic process in this young patients.