The aim of this section of our website is to provide detailed and comprehensive scientific information for specialists on the role of the MMP-3 biomarker, as well as its theoretical and practical applications in the treatment and diagnosis of rheumatoid arthritis. In addition to review articles, we provide extensive references to the literature, and in the future we will offer further scientific content in the form of podcasts and webinars.
Coming soon…
RA is a systemic autoimmune disease affecting 0.5–1% of the population, characterised by inflammatory and destructive involvement of joint cartilage and bone, which can lead to reduced mobility. Various scales (e.g. DAS28) and imaging techniques are available for monitoring disease activity, but conventional inflammatory markers do not always accurately reflect the extent of joint destruction. MMP-3 could be a sensitive complement to the parameters currently being tested, it may influence clinical decision making and optimisation of early treatment.
The chronic, autoimmune processes of RA cause persistent joint inflammation and bone destruction, in which matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) play a key role in the degradation of the extracellular matrix. MMP-3 (stromelysin-1) is particularly important in RA, as its levels are elevated in affected joints and in the blood, reflecting disease activity and the extent of joint destruction. According to research in recent years, MMP-3 can complement current diagnostic tools as a biomarker, improving diagnostic accuracy and supporting therapeutic decisions, as has already become standard practice in Japan, for example.
Serum MMP-3 levels correlate with disease activity, reflect joint and bone damage, as well as the extent of radiological progression, and may have predictive value in assessing the expected efficacy of therapies in patients with rheumatoid arthritis. For this reason, it may play a role in both the early diagnosis of the disease and the prediction of therapeutic efficacy.
Yes, the MMP-3 test is available in Hungary through the SYNLAB blood collection network, as well as at private healthcare providers that have a contractual relationship with SYNLAB. Our partners of laboratories are expanding.
No, at this time, this test is available on a self-pay basis; there is no public health insurance coverage for it. However, the cost of the test is eligible for reimbursement from a health savings account ('egészségpénztár').
