Serum concentrations of matrix metalloproteinase-9, tissue inhibitor of matrix metalloproteinase-1 and alpha2-macroglobulin in healthy subjects after supplementation with different doses of marine n-3 fatty acids.

OBJECTIVE

Extracellular matrix modification by matrix metalloproteinase-9 (MMP-9), tissue inhibitor of matrix metalloproteinases-1 (TIMP-1) and alpha2-macroglobulin may affect the stability of atherosclerotic plaques. Marine n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (n-3 PUFA) may protect against plaque rupture. The aim was to investigate the effect of marine n-3 PUFA supplementation on serum levels of MMP-9, TIMP-1, and alpha2-macroglobulin.

METHODS

Healthy volunteers were randomized to receive capsules contributing either 6.6 g marine n-3 PUFA/day, 2.0 g marine n-3 PUFA/day or 6.6 g of olive oil (control). Serum MMP-9, TIMP-1 and alpha2-macroglobulin was measured at baseline and after 12 weeks of supplementation. One way ANOVA or Kruskal-Wallis test was used to compare groups.

RESULTS

60 healthy volunteers were enrolled and no subjects dropped out of the 12 week study. There were no statistically significant changes in serum levels of MMP-9, TIMP-1, and alpha2-macroglobulin in any of the three treatment groups (P=0.85, P=0.23 and P=0.87, respectively).

CONCLUSION

Supplementation with marine n-3 PUFA had no effect on serum levels of MMP-9, TIMP-1 and alpha2-macroglobulin in healthy subjects. The possible protection offered by marine n-3 PUFA against plaque rupture is therefore unlikely to be mediated through a change in serum levels of MMP-9, TIMP-1 and alpha2-macroglobulin.