Matrix metalloproteinases in ureteropelvic junction obstruction.

BACKGROUND: Management of ureteropelvic junction obstruction (UPJO) remains controversial. The aim of the present study was to measure the levels of matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) in UPJO patients who were planned to undergo surgery and thus clarify if MMPs levels could serve as potential biomarkers of surgical obstruction in UPJO.

METHODS: Serum samples of infants with UPJO diagnosis were compared to serum samples of healthy age-matched controls. MMP2 and MMP9 were quantified using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA).

RESULTS: A total of 17 infants with UPJO diagnosis, and median age 1.5 months, were prospectively recruited. MMP9 levels were significantly decreased in the serum samples of UPJO infants compared to controls (p =0.037). Also MMP2 values were higher in UPJO infants compared to controls, but the difference was not statistically significant (p =0.206).

CONCLUSIONS: This study found decreased concentrations of MMP9 in infants with obstructive hydronephrosis. However, the results should be tested in larger population samples and even be evaluated simultaneously with urine samples in order to delineate the ability of MMPs to serve as obstruction biomarkers. HIPPOKRATIA 2017, 21(3): 136-139.