Levels of matrix metalloproteinase-2, -9 and -8 in the skin, serum and saliva of smokers and non-smokers.

Smoking induces skin ageing, affects wound healing and inflammatory responses in skin and mucous membranes but the mechanisms behind these adverse effects of smoking are not clear. The objective was to elucidate the mechanisms of smoking-related tissue damage, by comparing the levels of matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) -2, -9, and -8 in the skin, serum and saliva of smokers and non-smokers. The study population consisted of 47 current smokers and 51 non-smokers, all males of Finnish origin.