Matrix metalloprotease-2 and -9 concentration and activity in serum and culture medium samples: a methodological reappraisal.

Background: Matrix metalloproteases (MMPs) play an important role in cardiovascular remodeling by degrading the extracellular matrix. The aim of this study was to compare two different methods for MMP-2 and MMP-9 concentration and activity determination.

Methods: MMP-2 and -9 levels were measured by immunometric and enzymatic assays to determine total and active levels.