Serum MMP-9 and IL-1β levels in acute ischemic stroke and their association with initial neurological severity: a case-control study
Abstract
Background
Ischemic stroke (IS) is a leading cause of global mortality and long-term disability. The acute inflammatory response is a critical element in the early pathophysiology and contributes to neuronal damage. Although matrix metalloproteinase-9 (MMP-9) and interleukin-1 beta (IL-1β) have been implicated in early ischemic brain injury, their combined prognostic value in the acute phase remains unclear.
Objective
This study aimed to evaluate the association between serum MMP-9 and IL-1β concentrations within the first 24 h of ischemic stroke onset and initial severity of neurological deficits.
Materials and Methods
A case-control study was conducted with 60 patients diagnosed with acute ischemic stroke and 60 age- and sex-matched healthy controls. Serum levels of MMP-9 and IL-1β were quantified using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). The National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale (NIHSS) was used to assess stroke severity at admission.
Results
Serum levels of MMP-9 and IL-1β were significantly elevated in ischemic stroke patients compared to those in the control group (p < 0.001). Both biomarkers demonstrated a significant positive correlation with the NIHSS scores, indicating an association with greater neurological impairment. Furthermore, a strong positive correlation was observed between MMP-9 and IL-1β levels (r = 0.929, p = 0.022).
Conclusion
Elevated serum concentrations of MMP-9 and IL-1β within the first 24 h of ischemic stroke are strongly correlated with the severity of the condition, supporting their potential application as acute inflammatory and prognostic biomarkers.
© 2026 Haider Adnan Rahman, Kadhem Muhammed Sabae, published by University of Medicine, Pharmacy, Science and Technology of Targu Mures
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