Elevated plasma levels of TIMP-1 in patients with rotator cuff tear

Background and purpose:Extracellular matrix remodelling is altered in rotator cuff tears,16partly due to altered expression of matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) and their inhibitors. It is unclear if this altered expression can be traced as changes in plasma protein levels. The purposes were to measure the plasma level of MMPs and their tissue inhibitors (TIMPs) inpatients with rotator cuff tears and to relate changes in the pattern of MMP and TIMP levels with the extent of the rotator cuff tear. Methods: Blood samples were collected from 17 patients, median 61 (range 39-77) years, with sonographically verified rotator cuff tears (partial- or full-thickness). These were compared with 16 gender and age matched control persons with sonographically intact rotator cuffs. Plasma levels of MMPs and TIMPs were measured simultaneously using Luminex technology and ELISA. Results: The plasma level of TIMP-1 was elevated in patients with rotator cuff tears, especially in those with full-thickness tears. The levels of TIMP-1, TIMP-3 and MMP-9 were higher in patients with full-thickness tears compared to those with partial-thickness tears, but only TIMP-1 was different from controls. Interpretation: The observed elevation of TIMP-1 in plasma might reflect local pathological processes in or around the rotator cuff, or a genetic predisposition in these patients. That levels of TIMP-1 and certain MMP´s was found to differ between partial and full thickness tears may reflect the extent of the lesion or different aetiology and pathomechanisms