Matrix metalloproteinase-3 serum levels in schizophrenic patients

Abstract

Objectives It has been reported that matrix metalloproteinase, MMP-3 may play a significant role in the pathophysiology of mental disorders. However, there are no data on the level of MMP-3 in people suffering from schizophrenia, or its influence on the mental state of these people. The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of an antipsychotic treatment on the blood levels of MMP-3, as well as investigating its relationship with insight into schizophrenia. Methods Thirty people with schizophrenia were included in the study. The concentration of MMP-3 in the blood serum was assessed using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Insight into the disease was assessed using the Beck Cognitive Insight Scale. Results The antipsychotic treatment applied decreased the levels of MMP-3 in patients with schizophrenia (p = 0.005), however, the statistically significant interaction (p = 0.02) indicates that the decrease only concerned men. There was also a statistically significant correlation between the level of MMP-3 and insight into the disease (p = 0.02). Conclusion MMP-3 may be associated with gender, treatment and symptoms in schizophrenic patients. KEY POINTS MMP3 could be used as a potential biomarker for schizophrenia. The level of MMP-3 decreased due to the applied antipsychotic treatment. The higher the level of MMP-3 in a group of people with schizophrenia, the better insight into their disease.