Association of Body Mass Index with Matrix Metalloproteinase-9, Tissue Inhibitor of Metalloproteinase-1, and Interleukin-6 Based on Blood Pressure

Background: A high body mass index (BMI) is known to be associated with high blood pressure. Levels of matrix metalloproteinase-9 (MMP-9), tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinase-1 (TIMP-1), and interleukin-6 (IL-6) are also increased in hypertensive patients. The aim of this study was to determine the correlation of BMI with MMP-9, TIMP-1, and IL-6 based on blood pressure. Methods: The study design was cross-sectional with subjects aged >= 36 years, male and female and divided into 3 groups: group with normal blood pressure (NBP), group with controlled hypertension (CHT), and group with uncontrolled hypertension (UcHT). Height, weight, and blood pressure were measured, as well as serum levels of MMP-9, TIMP-1 and IL-6 using the ELISA method. The correlation was considered significant at p-value of < 0.05. Results: The BMI in group UcHT was higher than in the other groups. There was a positive correlation between BMI and MMP-9; BMI and TIMP-1; and BMI and IL-6 (r=0.480, p=0.007; r=0.620; p=0.000; r=374, p=0.042 respectively) in group UcHT. Conclusions: An increase in BMI is accompanied by an increase in levels of MMP-9, TIMP-1, and IL-6 in group UcHT, signifying that it is necessary to control BMI to maintain stable levels of MMP-9, TIMP-1, and IL-6, thereby keeping blood pressure under control.