Relationship of circulating MMP–2, MMP–1, and TIMP–1 levels with bone biochemical markers and bone mineral density in postmenopausal Chinese women

Introduction Osteoblast-derived matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)–2, MMP–1 and tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinase (TIMP)–1 have been shown to play a role in bone metabolism by degrading the bone matrix. Methods The present study was performed to investigate the relationships between serum MMP–2, MMP–1, or TIMP–1 levels and bone mineral density (BMD), as well as bone biochemical markers, in 297 Chinese postmenopausal women aged 42–80 years. Results We found a significant negative weak correlation between MMP–2 and BMD at various skeletal regions. After adjustment for age and BMI, the correlation with BMD at the femoral neck and total hip disappeared. Multiple linear stepwise regression analysis showed that MMP–2 was not a determinant factor for BMD. The significant positive correlations between MMP–2 and bone cross-linked N–telopeptides of type I collagen (NTX), alkaline phosphatase (BAP), and osteocalcin (OC) and were found, and remained significant after adjustment for age and BMI. Moreover, serum MMP–2 concentrations were significantly higher in postmenopausal women with osteoporosis than in age-matched normal controls. There were no significant correlations between MMP–1, TIMP–1 and BMD. There were no significant relationships between MMP–1 and BAP, OC, and NTX. The associations between TIMP–1 and BAP and OC were not specific and constant. Conclusions In conclusion, our results suggest that circulating MMP–2 and markers of bone turnover are correlated, and serum MMP–2 levels may rise with increase in bone turnover.