Objective: To explore the role of matrix metalloproteinase-1,2(MMP-1, MMP-2) and tissue inhibitor of matrix metalloproteinases-1 (TIMP-1) in endometriosis. Methods: The eutopic and ectopic endometria from 40 subjects suffering from endometriosis and regular endometria from 40 subjects(excluding endometriosis) were collected and examined by in situ hybridization technology and western blot assay. Results: Both expressions of MMP-1 and -2 were stronger in ectopic endometrium and eutopic endometrium than in normal endometrium. On the contrary, the expression of TIMP-1 in ectopic endometrium and eutopic endometrium was lower. The differences were significant(P < 0.01). Moreover, there was no relationship among the expressions of MMP-1, 2 and TIMP-1 in ectopic endometrium. Conclusion: The expressions of MMP-1, 2 and TIMP-1 lose balance and lack of periodic changes in ectopic endometrium , which explains the biological invasive behavior of endometriosis. It was suggested that regulating the balance between the MMPs and TIMP-1 should be an ideal therapeutic target to endometriosis.