Matrix metalloproteinases as candidate biomarkers in adults with congenital heart disease

Abstract

Context Matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) are associated with diastolic dysfunction and heart failure in acquired heart disease.

Objective To investigate the role of MMPs as novel biomarkers in clinically stable adults with congenital heart disease.

Methods We measured serum MMP-2, -3, -9 and tissue inhibitor of matrix metalloproteinase-1 in 425 patients and analysed the association with cardiac function and exercise capacity.

Results MMP-2 was significantly associated with exercise capacity, ventilatory efficiency and left ventricular deceleration time, independently of age, sex, body surface area and NT-proBNP.

Conclusion MMP-2 may provide new information in the clinical evaluation of adults with congenital heart disease.

Keywords:

• Cardiac function
• echocardiography
• exercise capacity

Acknowledgements

We thank all the laboratory staff of the Erasmus MC who contributed to this project. The many hours of dedicated work they spent on the processing and analysis of blood samples were essential for the execution of this study.

Disclosure statement

The authors report no declarations of interest.