Peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-γ in induced sputum is correlated with MMP-9/TIMP-1 imbalance and formation of emphysema in COPD patients.

Background: The development of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is modulated by the symmetry of matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) and the counter-acting tissue inhibitors of metalloproteinases (TIMPs). We investigated the interaction between peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma (PPARγ) expression and the imbalance of MMP-9/TIMP-1 in the induced sputum of stable COPD patients.

Methods: Sixty-six stable COPD patients were enrolled and the induced sputum samples were gathered.