Matrix Metalloproteinase-9 Inhibition Reduces Inflammation and Improves Motility in Murine Models of Postoperative Ileus

MMP-9 mediates cellular inflammatory responses within the intestinal muscularis in mouse and rat models of POI. Inhibition of MMP-9 activity reduced recruitment of immune cells to the intestinal muscularis, preventing loss of smooth muscle contractility. Induction of MMP-9 expression requires inducible nitric oxide synthase.