Serum matrix metalloproteinase-2 in patients with chronic hepatitis C and hepatocellular carcinoma

ABSTRACT

The present study aimed to examine the possible involvement of matrix metalloproteinase-2 [MMP-2] in the development of liver diseases caused by HCV infection. The serum activities of MMP-2 enzyme were studied by enzyme immunoassay [EIA] in sera from patients with HCV and HCC on the 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 a control group. The serum levels of MMP-2 were found to be significantly higher in both patient groups as compared with the control group. However, there was no significant difference between HCV and HCC patient groups. There was a significant positive correlation between the serum levels of MMP-2 and the 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