Matrix metalloproteinase 9 mRNA: An early prognostic marker for patients with acute stroke

ObjectivesTo investigate matrix metalloproteinase 9 (MMP9) mRNA as a prognostic marker in stroke.Design and methodsMMP9 mRNA concentrations in 126 stroke patients were analyzed using quantitative reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction.ResultsThe normalized MMP9 mRNA concentration was almost 3 times higher in non-survival patients compared to survival patients (P = 0.0002); and 1.9-fold higher in patients with post-stroke modified Rankin score (mRS) > 2 than patients with mRS ≤ 2 (P < 0.05).ConclusionsMMP9 mRNA was a predictor of poor outcome and mortality in stroke.

► MMP9 mRNA level was higher in hemorrhagic stroke than in ischemic stroke.
► MMP9 mRNA level was higher in patients with greater severity of disease.
► MMP9 mRNA level was higher in patients with poor outcome.
► MMP9 mRNA level was higher in patients who died within 6 months.
► High MMP9 mRNA level was a predictor of poor outcome and mortality.