Matrix Metalloproteinases and Their Tissue Inhibitors in Patients with Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease

The objective of the study is to assess the role of MMP-9, TIMP-1 & 2 as non-invasive markers of liver fibrosis in the NAFLD. The 99 patients with NAFLD and different stages of fibrosis were examined. We assessed of anthropometric indicators, biochemical analysis of blood, abdominal ultrasonic studies, the levels of MMP-9, TIMP-1 & 2. According of results of elastometry, patients were divided into five groups: n = 27, n = 22, n = 23, n = 14, n = 13, respectively, depending on the stage of fibrosis (0~4). Between the groups in physical examination, no significant differences in BMI and W/H were found. 64.6% of patients had abdominal obesity (BMI: 31.5 (29.1~33.9), W/H: 1.02 (1.01~1.05)). Obesity and abdominal obesity (BMI and W/H) had a significant positive relationship of moderate streight (rs = 0.257, p < 0.04 and rs = 0.301, p < 0.02, respectively), with the stage of liver fibrosis. The groups were significant differences in the level of glucose, total bilirubin (p < 0.04, p < 0.03, respectively). No significant differences in the level of liver function tests (ALT and AST) in the study groups were found. Significant differences were found in level of TIMP-2 (p < 0.04). TIMP-2 had a significant positive correlation with the severity of fibrosis in the hepatic tissue (rs = 0.349, p < 0.004). TIMP-2 may be considered as a potential non-invasive marker for the diagnosis of liver fibrosis in patients with NAFLD.