Circulating matrix metalloproteinase-9 and tissue inhibitors of metalloproteinases-1 and -2 levels in gestational hypertension

We have demonstrated altered MMP/TIMP ratios in maternal blood during GH. These observations suggest pregnancy-related changes in ECM breakdown and turnover. Given the importance of changes in ECM composition to vascular and cardiac structure in hypertension, we suggest that these observations may be related to the pathophysiology of human GH.