Serum matrix metalloproteinases MMP-9 and MMP-2 and tissue inhibitors TIMP-2 in necrotizing enterocolitis

Abstract

The analysis of the balance of elastase (MMP-2, MMP-9) and TIMP-4 was performed in order to determine their involvement in the pathogenesis of NEC. A progressive duration of NEC with sepsis is accompanied by increased serum concentrations of MMP-9, MMP-2 and TIMP-4. Increases in concentrations of MMP-2>503 ng/ml, MMP-9>812 ng/ml TIMP-4>1404 ng/ml can be regarded as statistically significant predictors of fatal outcome of NEC. The proposed method for determination of the outcomes of NEC in newborns is characterized by high sensitivity (94%) and specificity (87%).