Alterations in serum MMP and TIMP concentrations following chronic heroin abuse.
Τίτλος | Alterations in serum MMP and TIMP concentrations following chronic heroin abuse. |
Publication Type | Journal Article |
Year of Publication | 2013 |
Authors | Kovatsi, L., Batzios S., Nikolaou K., Fragou D., Njau S., Tsatsakis A., Karakiulakis G., & Papakonstantinou E. |
Journal | Toxicol Mech Methods |
Volume | 23 |
Issue | 5 |
Pagination | 377-81 |
Date Published | 2013 Jun |
ISSN | 1537-6524 |
Λέξεις κλειδιά | Adult, Chronic Disease, Heroin Dependence, Humans, Male, Matrix Metalloproteinases, Middle Aged, Prospective Studies, Tissue Inhibitor of Metalloproteinases, Young Adult |
Abstract | UNLABELLED: Abstract Context: Although opiate abuse is known to affect matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs), data on these enzymes and their tissue inhibitors in heroin addicts are scarce.OBJECTIVE: In the present study, we determined serum concentrations of MMP-2, MMP-9, tissue inhibitors of metalloproteinase (TIMP)-1 and TIMP-2 in heroin users, and compared them with healthy individuals. We evaluated whether 21 d of abstinence are adequate to reverse the effect of opiates and we compared seropositive with seronegative, for anti-HCV antibodies, heroin users.MATERIALS AND METHODS: Twenty-six heroin-dependent male volunteers and an equal number of healthy individuals participated in this study. ELISA was used to assess the serum levels of MMP-2, MMP-9, TIMP-1 and TIMP-2. Heroin users were assessed both upon admission and upon completion of a 21-d detoxification program.RESULTS: Serum TIMP-1 concentrations were significantly lower and the ratios MMP-2/TIMP-1, MMP-9/TIMP-1 and MMP-2/TIMP-2 were significantly higher in heroin users compared to healthy individuals. Heroin users who were seropositive had lower MMP concentrations, as well as lower MMP/TIMP ratios, compared to those who were seronegative.DISCUSSION: Our results showed that in heroin-addicted individuals, and especially those who are positive for anti-HCV antibodies, the balance between MMPs and TIMPs in serum is disrupted and this disruption cannot be restored within 21 d of abstinence.CONCLUSION: Chronic heroin abuse disrupts the balance between MMPs and TIMPs in serum and this effect is not reversible within 21 d of abstinence. |
DOI | 10.3109/15376516.2012.758681 |
Alternate Journal | Toxicol. Mech. Methods |
PubMed ID | 23256456 |