MMP-9 (Matrix Metalloproteinase-9)

MMP-9 (Matrix Metalloproteinase-9) is a clinical biomarker on the Inflammation panel, reported in ng/mL. Standard reference range: 0–332 ng/mL. Functional (optimal) range used by integrative practitioners: 0–250 ng/mL.

What is MMP-9 (Matrix Metalloproteinase-9)?

MMP-9 (gelatinase B) is a zinc-dependent endopeptidase secreted by activated macrophages, neutrophils, mast cells, and microglia that degrades type IV collagen and the extracellular matrix scaffold of the blood-brain barrier (BBB). In CIRS-WDB, biotoxin-driven innate immune activation overwhelms TIMP-1 regulation, producing tissue-destructive MMP-9 excess (CIRS baseline 628 ng/mL vs 332 ng/mL control). Tier interpretation: 250–332 ng/mL = borderline / early MMP-TIMP imbalance; >332 = CIRS-consistent, BBB disruption possible; >1,000 = markedly elevated with tissue-destructive activity and prominent neurological symptoms; >2,000 = severely elevated, aggressive remodeling and significant BBB disruption. ⚠ SPECIMEN HANDLING IS CRITICAL: MMP-9 is released from white blood cells at room temperature and can double or triple within 30 minutes if not immediately centrifuged and frozen — use a prechilled SST tube with immediate centrifugation and freezing. Draw in a stable, non-exercising state at least 24–48 hours after any vigorous exercise (acute exercise transiently spikes MMP-9). NOT CIRS-exclusive: also elevated in IBD (Crohn's/UC), asthma, CAD, aortic aneurysm, MS (correlates with relapse activity), TBI, acute infections, and malignancy — interpret alongside the full Shoemaker panel (C4a, MSH, TGF-β1, VEGF, VIP).

Reference ranges

How SomaVue interprets MMP-9 (Matrix Metalloproteinase-9)

SomaVue maps every result for MMP-9 (Matrix Metalloproteinase-9) against four clinical lenses — nutrient cofactors, toxin exposure, infection drivers, and circadian/hormonal context — and connects each interpretation to specific peer-reviewed citations. Pre-mapped clinical reasoning and cross-marker pattern detection are available inside the practitioner workspace.

Educational reference only. Reference ranges vary by laboratory, assay method, age, sex, and clinical context. Functional ranges represent integrative-medicine consensus and are not regulatory thresholds. SomaVue does not diagnose, treat, mitigate, or prevent disease. Always consult a licensed healthcare provider.