Matrix Metalloproteinases and Tissue Inhibitor of Metalloproteinases in Exercise

Matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) and their tissue inhibitory MMPs (TIMPs) play a pivotal role in maintaining homeostasis of the extracellular matrix (ECM). While exercise promotes the adaptation of the ECM, it is unclear how aerobic and resistance exercise may elicit different responses in MMPs and TIMPs. Thus, the study reviewed the role of aerobic and resistance exercise at different intensities in MMPs and TIMPs. In the studies reviewed, MMP-9 and TIMP-1 were most widely studied in relation to exercise. Following aerobic exercise, positive health benefits may be associated with a decrease in MMP-9 and TIMP- 1. For resistance training, the changes in MMP-9 and TIMP-1 were related to high-volume load and the usage of large muscle groups. While exercise-induced changes in MMPs and TIMPs may last longer following chronic aerobic exercise training than in the short-term, the changes following resistance exercise may be more transient in nature. CONCLUSION: Responses of MMPs and TIMPs to aerobic or resistance exercise highly depend on the population studied. However, denoting a change in MMPs and TIMPs, regardless of an increased or decreased concentration, following aerobic or resistance exercise was linked to a positive adaptation that bolstered good health. More comparative studies that carefully examine different populations within the same study design are warranted to better elucidate the mechanism and condition by which MMPs and TIMPs will change following aerobic and resistance exercise.