Circulating matrix metalloproteinases and their inhibitors in inguinal hernia and abdominal aortic aneurysm.

Abstract

Different patterns of circulating MMP and TIMP levels were found in patients with aneurysm and hernia compared with controls. Underlying pathogenic processes implicating MMPs and TIMPs in connective tissue metabolism are expressed by differing plasma levels in the two disease states. Further research including combined plasma and tissue analyses is required to further investigate potential common pathogenesis of these diseases.