[Serum levels of matrix metaloproteinase 2 (MMP-2), matrix metaloproteinase 9 (MMP-9) and tissue inhibitor of metaloproteinase 2 (TIMP-2) in children and adolescents with growth hormone deficiency].

Introduction: Matrix metaloproteinases (MMPs) have been implicated in various pathological processes including inflammatory response, atherosclerosis and cardiovascular disease. Growth hormone deficiency (GHD) is associated with prematury atherosclerosis and cardiovascular disease. Circulating levels of matrix metaloproteinases and their tissue inhibitors (TIMPs) so far have not been assessed in children and adolescents with GHD.

[Ultrasonographic evaluation of atherosclerotic changes in carotid and brachial arteries in children with growth hormone deficiency before GH replacement therapy].

Background: According to very well documented onset of atherosclerosis in early childhood, scientists are looking for good diagnostic methods for evaluating first changes in arterial blood vessels non-invasively. We want to know more about pathogenetic mechanisms and about changes in vessels especially in the group of young people with risk factors of premature atherosclerosis. The role of endothelial dysfunction in the very early phase of this process is known very well so far.

[Left ventricular mass and function in growth hormone deficient children and adolescents before and after one year of recombinant human growth hormone (GH) replacement therapy].

Unlabelled: A total of 25 patients (10 girls and 15 boys) aged 8.1-16.9 years (mean 13.

[Selected adhesion molecules: sICAM-1 and sVCAM-1 as markers of endothelial dysfunction in diabetic children and adolescence].

Unlabelled: Atherosclerotic process is accelerated in children with atherosclerosis risk factors, such as type 1 diabetes. Infiltration of the vessel wall by monocytes and lymphocytes, which starts atherosclerotic process, takes place under influence of adhesion molecules. Adhesion molecules play an important role in the first stage of atherosclerosis, and it is suggested that expression of adhesion molecules in children can be greater than in adults.