目的　探讨基质金属蛋白酶 (MMPs)与脑囊性动脉瘤基质重塑及动脉瘤破裂的相关性。方法　通过对动脉瘤标本进行免疫组织化学染色 ,比较破裂与未破裂动脉瘤中MMPs与抑制因子 (TIMPs)的表达与分布特点。结果　MMPs和TIMPs在正常脑动脉壁表达阴性 ,而在动脉瘤壁中表达异常增高 ;阳性表达细胞主要为单核 /巨噬细胞 ,破裂动脉瘤壁中这种异常有“灶性”表达的趋势。结论　MMPs造成的胶原过度降解是脑囊性动脉瘤壁中基质重塑的主要特点 ,并可能最终导致动脉瘤的破裂 Objective To investigate the relationship between matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) and matrix remodeling and aneurysm rupture in cerebral cystic aneurysms. Methods By immunohistochemical staining of aneurysm specimens, the expression and distribution of MMPs and inhibitors (TIMPs) in ruptured and unruptured aneurysms were compared. Results The expressions of MMPs and TIMPs were negative in the normal cerebral arterial wall and abnormally increased in the aneurysmal wall. The positive cells were predominantly monocytes / macrophages, with a “focal” expression in the ruptured aneurysm wall . Conclusions The overexpression of collagen induced by MMPs is a major feature of stromal remodeling in the wall of the cystic aneurysm and may eventually lead to aneurysm rupture