AB0231 Elevation of Serum Matrix Metalloproteinase-3 in A Group of Rheumatoid Arthritis Algerian Patients

Background Matrix metalloproteinase-3 (MMP-3) is a protease induced by inflammatory cytokines in rheumatoid synovium and degrades a number of extracellular matrix components of cartilage and bone. Its central role in rheumatoid joint destruction was especially highlighted from both pathophysiological and clinical studies. In addition, serum MMP-3 level is a clinically useful maker for predicting joint destruction and for disease activity in rheumatoid arthritis (RA). Objectives The aim of our study is to evaluate the serum matrix metalloproteinase 3 (MMP-3) levels in a group of algerian patients with early and advanced rheumatoid arthritis (RA) compared to healthy subjects. Methods The study group consisted of 50 patients with RA, including 81.6% women, mean age 45,0±15,0 years, mean duration 4,3±4,2 years, Forty healthy subjects served as a control group (71.4% women, mean age 33,0±13,0 years). Analysis of serum concentrations of MMP-3 was based on a quantitative sandwich ELISA (Aeskulisa DF MMP-3, Aesku.Diagnostics, Wendelsheim, Germany). A cut-off point of 120 ng/ml (men) and 60 ng/ml (women) was used for MMP-3 positive/negative categorization. Results First of all, 61,3% of patients were rheumatoid factor (RF)-positive and 93,8% anti-CCP positive. MMP-3 is significantly higher in sera of RA patients (Mean value: 175,8±178,2 ng/ml) than in those of control group (Mean value: 23,0±17,8 ng/ml) (p