Matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) play an essential role in tissue repair, cell death and morphogenesis and may constitute therapeutic targets for acute brain injuries. In this study, we investigated the expression of 72 kDa and 92 kDa collagenases MMP-2 and MMP-9 at transcriptional, functional and protein expression level following traumatic brain injury in infant rats. Seven-day-old Wistar rats were subjected to head trauma using a weight drop device. Pups were sacrificed at defined time points (2-72 h) after trauma and brains were processed for molecular studies (semiquantitative and real-time PCR, Western blot, gelatin zymography) and histology. Trauma triggered widespread cell death in the cortex, basal ganglia and white matter. mRNA levels for MMP-2 and -9 were increased in the brain at 12-72 h after trauma. Protein expression of the analyzed MMPs and activity of MMP-2 were increased at 12 h and peaked at 24 h after trauma. Intraperitoneal injection of GM6001 (Ilomastat), an MMP inhibitor, 2 h after trauma, substantially attenuated traumatic brain injury in a dose-dependent manner. These findings causally link the MMPs to trauma-induced neuronal cell death in the immature rodent brain. MMPs might serve as useful targets for therapeutic approaches aimed at preserving neuronal function in the immature brain in the context of mechanical injury.