MMP-2 and MMP-9 Serum Levels Change but their Gene Promoter Polymorphisms are not Associated with Late Phase I/R Injury or Rejection after Orthotopic Liver Transplantation

Introduction. Matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) are involved in connective tissue remodeling processes asso- ciated with chronic liver disease and complications after orthotopic liver transplantation (OLT). Genetic variations in the promoter region of the MMP-2 and MMP-9 genes are thought to contribute not only to their transcription rate but may also have predisposing clinical impact. Methods. MMP-2 and MMP-9 gene promoter polymorphisms were analyzed in 109 patients who underwent an OLT. The relationship between these MMP polymorphisms in the donor and recipient DNA with the development of ische- mia/reperfusion (I/R) injury and rejection after OLT was evaluated. In addition, serum MMP-2 and MMP-9 levels were determined to illustrate potential phenotypical consequences in these patients. Results. The MMP-2 and -9 genotypes of the donor and recipient or a donor/recipient mismatch and chimerism were not associated with the development of late phase I/R injury or rejection in the OLT patients, although serological differences in the MMP levels did occur. The MMP-2 and -9 genotype distribution did also not have a major impact on the respective serum levels in patients that underwent an OLT. Conclusions. MMP-2 and MMP-9 gene polymorphisms do not seem to contribute to late phase I/R injury or rejection after liver transplantation. Serological changes in the MMP-2 and MMP-9 levels appear to occur independent of the MMP genotype after transplantation of the liver.