Matrix metalloproteinases and their tissue inhibitors in serum and cerebrospinal fluid of patients with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis

Increased level of MMPs and TIMP-1 of ALS patients may reflect the degeneration process of motor neurons and skeletal muscles and/or is associated with tissues remodeling. The low level of MMP-9 in CSF may result from impaired balance between MMP-9 and TIMP-1 and/or its increased intrathecal degradation and physical clearance. Although the role of changed MMPs/TIMPs level in the pathogenesis of ALS is not clear their analysis in serum may be used as prognostic factor and a potential marker for monitoring treatment effects.