The AT also secretes matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs, e.g. MMP-2 or gelatinase A, MMP-9 or gelatinase B [8], and MMP-1,3,7, [9]) which have a functional role in the development of the AT [10] and are important for the extracellular matrix remodelling, which occurs during obesity-mediated AT formation, at least in mice [11]. Here, MMP9 is linked to obesity due to melanocortin 4 receptor deficiency.