TheEffect of Statinson Matrix Metalloproteinase 9in ChronicObstructive Pulmonary Disease

Abstract

Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) is a preventable and treatable disease state characterized by airflow limitation that is not fully reversible. The airflow limitation is usually progressive and is associated with an abnormal inflammatory response of the lungs to noxious particles or gases. Statins are used for their lipid lowering characteristics but also appear to have anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory properties which could possibly influence inflammatory airway disease The aim of this study was to assess the effect of statins on serum level of MMP-9 in COPD patients. The present study was conducted upon (40) patients admitted at (Chest Department of El Mattaria Teaching Hospital or coming to the Outpatient Clinic) and (40) healthy subjects during the period between December 2012 & January 2014. The patients wereall moderate COPD patients according to their pulmonary function tests. The COPD patients in the present study were 40males with a mean age of 58.5+12 years. All COPD patients and control group underwent baseline Pulmonary Function Test (Spirometer) which was repeated in COPD patients after receiving oral statin therapy "Atorvastatin" 20 mg/day for 3 months.