TIMP-1 mRNA Expression Research Articles

Inhibitory effects of baicalin on IL-1β- induced MMP-1/TIMP-1 and its stimulated effect on Collagen-I production in human periodontal ligament cells

Our previous research has proved that baicalin can inhibit the expression of Matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) in periodontal ligament cells (PDLC) by cell immunocytochemistry. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to address the effects of baicalin on the total protein amount and Collagen I mRNA expression in PDLC, and the regulatory effects on Matrix metalloproteinase-1/ tissue inhibitors of metalloproteinase-1( MMP-1/ TIMP-1 ) expression. PDLC were incubated with 0–1000 ng/ml baicalin for 1, 3 and 5 days. Coomasie brilliant blue staining was used to detect the synthesis of the total protein, and the collagen I mRNA expression was analyzed by reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR). PDLC were treated with phorbol 12-myristate 13-acetate (PMA) or interleukin-1β (IL-1β) with or without 100 ng/ml baicalin and then mRNA levels for MMP-1 and TIMP-1 were detected. Enzyme linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) was used to assess the MMP-1 protein. The range of 1–1000 ng/ml baicalin can enhance the amount of the total protein of PDL cells and the response had a dose-dependent manner in the range of 1–100 ng/ml baicalin. And 0–1000 ng/ml baicalin also significantly increased the Collagen I mRNA expression of PDLC. 1–100 pmol/ml PMA and 0.01–1 ng/ml IL-1βsignificantly ( p < 0.05) stimulated the production of MMP-1 by PDLC at both the transcriptional and the translational level. Different concentration PMA enhanced TIMP-1 mRNA expression, but IL-1βdid not affect the TIMP-1 mRNA expression. Moreover, in the presence of 100 ng/ml baicalin, both the MMP-1 and TIMP-1 mRNA expression were down regulated. The present study suggests that baicalin inhibits IL-1βinduction of MMP-1 by altering the mRNA and protein levels. In addition, baicalin may increase Collagen I mRNA and total protein levels in PDLC.

Combined effect of the finasteride and doxazosin on rat ventral prostate morphology and physiology

Finasteride (Fin) and Doxazosin (Dox), alone or in combination, have been widely used in treatment of benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) symptoms and recently have been suggested as potential drugs for prostate cancer (PCa)prevention and treatment. However, little is known about the effects of the combination therapy on prostate tissue morphology, physiology and matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) activity, a special set of enzymes closely related to PCa progression and metastasis. In this study, adult Wistar rats were treated with Fin + Dox (25 mg/kg per day) and the ventral prostate (VP) was excised at days 3 and 30 of treatment to evaluate morphology, cell proliferation, death, transforming growth factor-beta1 (TGF-beta1) protein expression, MMP-2, MMP-9 activities and MMP-2, MMP-9, TIMP-1 and TIMP-2 mRNA expression. Fin + Dox treatment induced a transient increase in testosterone (T) plasma concentration and a permanent reduction in dihydrotestosterone (DHT). The VP and epithelial cell proliferation were reduced and the stromal collagen fibre volume fraction and apoptosis of the epithelial cell were increased. Fin + Dox treatment also increased the TGF-beta1 immunoreaction in the epithelium and in the stroma. The mRNAs for MMP-2, TIMPs-1 and -2 expressions after 30 days of treatment were decreased. The mRNA for MMP-9 was not detected in any of the groups analysed. Fin + Dox treatment for 30 days promoted a decrease in gelatinolytic activity of MMP-2 and an increase in MMP-9. In conclusion, combined treatment with Fin and Dox interferes in the epithelial cell behaviour and in the MMPs activity, potentially via TGF-beta1-mediated and androgen pathways. Our results contribute to a better understanding of the clinical data and also of the molecular mechanisms behind isolated or combined Fin and Dox long-term treatment.

651 VERAPAMIL AND PENTOXIFYLLINE INHIBIT TGF-BETA-STIMULATED TIMP-3 PRODUCTION IN PEYRONIE'S DISEASE FIBROBLASTS: EVIDENCE OF CAMP- AND CALCIUM-DEPENDENT SIGNALING CROSSTALK

You have accessJournal of UrologyPenis/Testis/Urethra: Benign & Malignant Disease II1 Apr 2010651 VERAPAMIL AND PENTOXIFYLLINE INHIBIT TGF-BETA-STIMULATED TIMP-3 PRODUCTION IN PEYRONIE'S DISEASE FIBROBLASTS: EVIDENCE OF CAMP- AND CALCIUM-DEPENDENT SIGNALING CROSSTALK Marcello Del Carlo, Ada Cole, and Laurence Levine Marcello Del CarloMarcello Del Carlo More articles by this author , Ada ColeAda Cole More articles by this author , and Laurence LevineLaurence Levine More articles by this author View All Author Informationhttps://doi.org/10.1016/j.juro.2010.02.1025AboutPDF ToolsAdd to favoritesDownload CitationsTrack CitationsPermissionsReprints ShareFacebookTwitterLinked InEmail INTRODUCTION AND OBJECTIVES The calcium channel blocker verapamil and the phosphodiesterase type 4 (PDE4) inhibitor pentoxifylline have been reported to be useful as a treatment alternative for patients with Peyronie's Disease (PD). The fibrotic effects of TGF-beta overexpression in PD are well documented but the role of cAMP and calcium as secondary intermediates of TGF-beta signaling is poorly understood. The purpose of this study was to determine the effects of these anti-fibrotic agents on TGF-beta mediated tissue inhibitor of matrix metalloproteinase (TIMP) production as a potential mechanism of action. METHODS Fibroblasts were isolated from fibrotic plaque tissue removed from patients undergoing surgical correction for PD. The effects of verapamil (100 uM) and pentoxifylline (500 uM) on TGF-beta (10 ng/ml) mediated TIMP-3 production was analyzed by immunoblotting conditioned media from monolayer cultures 48 hours after stimulation, and reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) was used to quantify TIMP-3 mRNA in cells 8 hours after stimulation. Intracellular [calcium] fluxes were analyzed by confocal microscopy (lambda-ex = 340/380 nm, lambda-em = 510 nm) using Fura-2/AM (2 uM) loaded cells in the presence and absence of either the PKA activator forskolin (10 uM) or the PKA inhibitor H89 (10 uM) to modulate intracellular [cAMP]. Luciferase reporter constructs were transfected in cells to quantify CREB binding activity. RESULTS Pre-treatment with either verapamil or pentoxifylline reduced TGF-beta mediated TIMP-3 mRNA expression and protein production, and also prevented increased cytosolic calcium fluxes observed in cells stimulated with TGF-beta. Similar results were obtained with the calcium channel blocker nifedipine and the PKA activator forskolin. Pretreatment with either the cell-permeable calcium-chelator BAPTA/AM (5 uM) or the PKA inhibitor H89 had no effect. Treatment with either verapamil or pentoxifylline alone significantly induced CREB activity, which was marginally attenuated in the presence of TGF-beta. CONCLUSIONS Decreased TGF-beta mediated TIMP-3 expression represents an attractive mechanism for the anti-fibrotic effects displayed by verapamil and pentoxifylline therapy in patients with PD. The increased activity of cAMP-sensitive calcium channels caused by TGF-beta overexpression may represent an important biochemical mechanism for the localized fibrosis observed in PD. Chicago, IL© 2010 by American Urological Association Education and Research, Inc.FiguresReferencesRelatedDetails Volume 183Issue 4SApril 2010Page: e255 Advertisement Copyright & Permissions© 2010 by American Urological Association Education and Research, Inc.MetricsAuthor Information Marcello Del Carlo More articles by this author Ada Cole More articles by this author Laurence Levine More articles by this author Expand All Advertisement Advertisement PDF downloadLoading ...

Biological effects of CTGF combined with TIMP1 mediated by adeno associated virus to degenerated lumbar intervertebral discs in rhesus monkey.

Objective To study the biological effect of connective tissue growth factor (CTGF) and tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinases 1 (TIMPI) mediated by adeno-associated virus 2 (AAV2) to rhesus monkey lumbar intervertebral discs in vivo. Methods To establish a novel model of lumbar disc degeneration in the rhesus monkey using percutaneous needle puncture guided by CT. The rAAV2-CTGF-IRES-T1MPI was injected percutaneously with minimal invasive technique. The mRNA expression of CTGF and TIMP1 was determined through RT-PCR. The biological effect of rAAV2-CTGF-IRES-TIMP1 was examined by RT-PCR, ~(35)S incorporation assay. Results At the 8th, 16th, 24th week after gene transfection, the expression of CTGF mRNA were 10.02, 2.39, 0.91 times respectively compared with the PBS control group; TIMP1 mRNA expression were 6.08, 3.81, 2.67 times respectively compared with the PBS control group; collagen type Ⅱ mRNA expression for the PBS control group were 145.51%, 174.72%, 113.73% respectively; proteoglycan mRNA expression were 461.19%, 191.46%, 301.39% respectively compared with the PBS contrel group; the efficiency of proteoglycan synthesis were 455.06%, 285.97%, 165.58% respectively compared with PBS control group. Conclusion The longer-term expression of CTGF and TIMP1 genes mediated by adeno-associated virus can achieve in vivo after transferring into the intervertebral disc, and also can increase the proteoglycan and collagen type Ⅱ synthesis, which delay disc degeneration. Key words: Adenoviruses, simian; Matrix metalloproteinases 1; Macaca mulatta; Intervertebral disk

Mechanisms regulating invasiveness and growth of endometriosis lesions in rat experimental model and in humans

To compare the expression of MMP-2, TIMP-2, and TGFbeta2 mRNA in experimental and human endometriotic lesions and to assess the possibility of its cytokine regulation. Experimental laboratory study. Medical center. ANIMALS AND PATIENT(S): Thirty female Wistar rats, 17 women with endometriosis, 11 healthy women. Uterine transplants were attached to rat peritoneum via the surgical autotransplantation technique. The collection of endometriotic implants at 7, 14, and 21 days postsurgery and laparoscopic collection of peritoneal fluid, ectopic, and matched eutopic endometrium from women with endometriosis were performed. MMP-2, TIMP-2, TGFbeta2 mRNA expression in endometrium was assessed by real-time reverse-transcription polymerase chain reaction. In rats, the increase of MMP-2 and decrease of TIMP-2 mRNA expression was noted at the 7th day, and an increase of TGFbeta2 mRNA expression was seen at the 14th day postsurgery. In humans, elevation of TIMP-2 mRNA expression in eutopic endometrium and of MMP-2, TGFbeta2 mRNA expression in ectopic endometrium was observed. Autologous peritoneal fluid stimulated MMP-2 mRNA expression in eutopic endometrium of women with endometriosis. Cytokines derived from ectopic lesions mononuclear cells increased TGFbeta2 mRNA expression in endometrium of healthy women. Supposedly MMP-TIMP balance is important in promoting endometriotic tissue invasion and TGFbeta2 in regulating ectopic endometrium growth.

Appropriate doses of Granulocyte-Colony Stimulating Factor Reduced Atherosclerotic Plaque Formation and Increased Plaque Stability in Cholesterol-Fed Rabbits

To evaluate the dose-response effects of granulocyte-colony stimulating factor (G-CSF) on atherosclerosis, we examined how G-CSF treatment at different concentrations affects atherosclerotic plaque formation in the aorta of cholesterol-fed rabbits. Japanese White rabbits (n=8 each) fed on a 1.5% cholesterol diet were subcutaneously injected with G-CSF at 50 (GL), 100 (GM), or 300 microg/kg/day (GH) for five days, or with 3 cycles of G-CSF at 100 microg/kg/day at 3-week intervals (GM3), or human serum albumin (Control). The extent and composition of atherosclerosis was evaluated 14 weeks after cholesterol feeding. Although G-CSF treatment did not affect plasma lipid levels, the percentage of aortic surface involvement in the GM3 group was significantly decreased (p<0.05) compared with the Control group. Histological analysis revealed that the intima media ratio was also diminished in GM and GM3 groups. The extent of intimal smooth muscle cell accumulation was higher in GL and GM3 groups than in the Control group. TIMP-2 mRNA expression in the aortic tissue was increased by G-CSF treatment. Our results suggest that appropriate doses of G-CSF reduced atherosclerotic plaque formation and increased plaque stability in cholesterol-fed rabbits.

Activation of PPARsα,β/δ, andγImpairs TGF-β1-Induced Collagens' Production and Modulates the TIMP-1/MMPs Balance in Three-Dimensional Cultured Chondrocytes

Background and Purpose. We investigated the potency of Peroxisome Proliferators-Activated Receptors (PPARs) α, β/δ, and γ agonists to modulate Transforming Growth Factor-β1 (TGF-β1-) induced collagen production or changes in Tissue Inhibitor of Matrix Metalloproteinase- (TIMP-) 1/Matrix Metalloproteinase (MMP) balance in rat chondrocytes embedded in alginate beads. Experimental Approach. Collagen production was evaluated by quantitative Sirius red staining, while TIMP-1 protein levels and global MMP (-1, -2, -3, -7, and -9) or specific MMP-13 activities were measured by ELISA and fluorigenic assays in culture media, respectively. Levels of mRNA for type II collagen, TIMP-1, and MMP-3 & 13 were quantified by real-time PCR. Key Results. TGF-β1 increased collagen deposition and type II collagen mRNA levels, while inducing TIMP-1 mRNA and protein expression. In contrast, it decreased global MMP or specific MMP-13 activities, while decreasing MMP-3 or MMP-13 mRNA levels. PPAR agonists reduced most of the effects of TGF-β1 on changes in collagen metabolism and TIMP-1/MMP balance in rat in a PPAR-dependent manner, excepted for Wy14643 on MMP activities. Conclusions and Implications. PPAR agonists reduce TGF-β1-modulated ECM turnover and inhibit chondrocyte activities crucial for collagen biosynthesis, and display a different inhibitory profile depending on selectivity for PPAR isotypes.

Differential Expression of Hepatic Fibrosis Mediators in Sick and Spontaneously Recovered Mice with Experimental Biliary Atresia

Hepatic fibrosis leading to cirrhosis is the major morbidity in patients with biliary atresia (BA). This fibrosis is due to an imbalance in extracellular matrix (ECM) breakdown and deposition. We have previously demonstrated increased mRNA expression for inhibitors of ECM breakdown without increased expression for mediators of ECM deposition in our animal model of BA by d 14. However, only a mild degree of hepatic fibrosis was seen at this time. We hypothesized that expression patterns for these proteins may change once more significant fibrosis had been established, and added resuscitation to the model to improve survival. Interestingly, we found that some mice spontaneously recovered at later time points with resuscitation, and thus compared expression for inhibitors of ECM breakdown and deposition in sick and recovered mice to determine the differences. Newborn Balb/c mice received an intraperitoneal injection 1.0 x 10(6) fluorescence forming units of rhesus rotavirus 24h after birth. Mice were monitored daily for weight gain, development of jaundice, acholic stools, and bilirubinuria. Fifty muL/g of 5% dextrose in normal saline were subcutaneously injected daily to each mouse starting on d 7 until sacrifice. Mice that survived past d 14 were sacrificed at d 21 after saline or RRV infection. Livers were then harvested post-injection d 21 for histologic and immunohistochemical analysis. RNA expression of known mediators of fibrosis was evaluated using quantitative real-time PCR. Protein expression was assessed using ELISA. Weights and normally distributed data were compared using Student's t test. Histologic findings were compared using Fisher's exact test. Comparisons of gene expression and skewed data were performed by the Mann-Whitney U test. Statistical significance was assigned to any P value less than 0.05. Daily resuscitation resulted in a 35% (24/68) survival rate to d 21 in our model. Mice that recovered were significantly heavier than those that remained ill on d 14 (6.15 +/- 1.16 versus 4.94 +/- 0.82, P = 0.02) and 21 (7.31 +/- 1.41 versus 4.14 +/- 0.53, P < 0.001) despite the fact that there was no difference between the groups with respect to weight on d 7 (4.29 +/- 0.90 versus 3.89 +/- 0.81, P = 0.32). We found that all (10/10) animals that displayed clinical signs of biliary atresia on d 21 had moderate or severe histologic findings, while only one (1/9) of the recovered animals had liver abnormalities at sacrifice (P < 0.001 versus sick group). We also found that the sick mice had statistically significant median fold-increases of mRNA expression for TIMP-1 (31.9 versus 9.1, P = 0.041), TIMP-4 (88.1 versus 1.8, P = 0.022), and MMP-7 (51.8 versus 11.9, P = 0.006) compared with those that recovered. There was a trend toward decreased mRNA expression for PAI-1, which did not reach statistical significance (median 27.7 versus 2.19, P = 0.066). Increased protein expression for TIMP-1 and PAI-1 were also found in the sick group. The mRNA expression for the fibrillar collagens, fibronectin-1, connective tissue growth factor, snail-1, TIMP-2 and -3, and MMP-2 and MMP-9 was not different in the sick and recovered groups 21 d after RRV infection, and was not elevated from baseline gene expression. With resuscitation added to the animal model of BA, some mice spontaneously recover while others progress to more significant hepatic fibrosis. Mice with hepatic fibrosis have a continued increase in mRNA expression of TIMP-1, TIMP-4, and MMP-7, with a trend toward increased mRNA expression of PAI-1 on d 21. Protein levels for TIMP-1 and PAI-1 were also increased in the sick mice. Recovered mice display mild to no hepatic parenchymal disease and a normal pattern of mRNA expression for the mediators of fibrosis tested. No increase in mRNA expression for the mediators of ECM deposition was found in either group. These data further support the notion that inhibition of ECM breakdown alone is sufficient to induce hepatic fibrosis. Modulation of this process may be a putative target for preventing liver injury in patients with BA.

Regulation of matrix metalloproteinases and tissue inhibitors of matrix metalloproteinases by basic fibroblast growth factor and dexamethasone in periodontal ligament cells

In this study, we investigated the effect of basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF) and dexamethasone (Dex) on mRNA expressions of collagen (COL) type I, III and X, matrix metalloproteinases (MMP)-1, -2, -3 and -9 and tissue inhibitors of metalloproteinases (TIMP)-1 and -2, and also on mineralization and morphology of periodontal ligament (PDL) cells. Periodontal ligament cells were obtained from premolar teeth extracted for orthodontic reasons. Periodontal ligament cells were cultured with Dulbecco's modified Eagle's medium containing: (1) 5% fetal bovine serum (FBS); (2) 5% FBS + ascorbic acid (AA, 50 microg/mL); (3) 5% FBS + Dex (10(-7) m) + AA; (4) 5% FBS + bFGF (10 ng/mL) + AA; or (5) 5% FBS + Dex (10(-7) m) + bFGF + AA. Cells within each group were evaluated for gene expression profile using semi-quantitative reverse transcriptase-polymerase chain reaction for COL I, III and X, MMP-1, -2, -3 and -9 and TIMP-1 and -2 on days 14 and 21 and for biomineralization by von Kossa stain in vitro on day 21. Images of PDL cells were examined using a phase contrast microscope. Basic fibroblast growth factor stimulated MMP-1, MMP-3 and MMP-9 mRNA expressions and inhibited TIMP-2 mRNA expression. Treatment of cells with Dex + bFGF led to downregulation of MMP-1, MMP-3 and MMP-9 transcripts. Whilst AA alone and Dex alone induced biomineralization of PDL cells, bFGF blocked the mineralization activity of the cells. In the Dex + bFGF group, more mineral nodules were noted when compared to AA alone and Dex alone groups. The addition of Dex to culture reversed bFGF-mediated inhibition of mineralization. Use of combined bFGF and Dex to regulate PDL cell function may be a good therapeutic option to obtain periodontal regeneration.

The Proteasome Is an Integral Part of Solar Ultraviolet A Radiation-induced Gene Expression

Solar ultraviolet (UV) A radiation is a well known trigger of signaling responses in human skin fibroblasts. One important consequence of this stress response is the increased expression of matrix metalloproteinase-1 (MMP-1), which causes extracellular protein degradation and thereby contributes to photoaging of human skin. In the present study we identify the proteasome as an integral part of the UVA-induced, intracellular signaling cascade in human dermal fibroblasts. UVA-induced singlet oxygen formation was accompanied by protein oxidation, the cross-linking of oxidized proteins, and an inhibition of the proteasomal system. This proteasomal inhibition subsequently led to an accumulation of c-Jun and phosphorylated c-Jun and activation of activator protein-1, i.e. transcription factors known to control MMP-1 expression. Increased transcription factor activation was also observed if the proteasome was inhibited by cross-linked proteins or lactacystin, indicating a general mechanism. Most importantly, inhibition of the proteasome was of functional relevance for UVA-induced MMP-1 expression, because overexpression of the proteasome or the protein repair enzyme methionine sulfoxide reductase prevented the UVA-induced induction of MMP-1. These studies show that an environmentally relevant stimulus can trigger a signaling pathway, which links intracellular and extracellular protein degradation. They also identify the proteasome as an integral part of the UVA stress response.

Expression of matrix metalloproteinases MMP‐2, MMP‐9 and their tissue inhibitors TIMP‐1 and TIMP‐2 in the epithelium and stroma of salivary gland pleomorphic adenomas

The balance between matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) and their tissue inhibitors (TIMPs) is involved in the morphogenesis of normal salivary gland as well as in the mechanisms of tumour invasion and metastasis. The role of MMPs and TIMPs in pleomorphic adenoma has not been elucidated sufficiently. Our aim was to analyse the mRNA and protein expression of MMP-2, MMP-9, TIMP-1 and TIMP-2 in the epithelium and stroma of pleomorphic adenoma and to evaluate their roles. In each sample from six patients, cells from the epithelium and stroma were obtained by laser microdissection. The mRNA expression of MMPs and TIMPs was determined by real-time quantitative reverse transcriptase-polymerase chain reaction and protein expression was confirmed by immunohistochemistry. Results showed that mRNA expression of MMPs and TIMPs was significantly higher in stroma than in epithelium in most patients. MMPs and TIMPs were immunoreactive mainly in epithelium rather than in stroma. Our results provide preliminary evidence that stromal myoepithelium may be the primary source of MMPs and that the stroma has the potential to play a more important role than ductal epithelium in biological behaviour of pleomorphic adenomas. These findings seem worthy of further investigation.

Expression and role of metalloproteinase-2 and endogenous tissue regulator in ameloblastoma

Ameloblastoma is a frequently encountered odontogenic benign tumor characterized by local invasiveness and high risk of recurrence. Matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)-2 can degrade type IV collagen, one of the major components in the basement membrane, resulting in the promotion of tumor invasion, whereas it is under the influence of an activator, membrane type 1-MMP-14 and the tissue inhibitor of metalloproteases (TIMP)-2. The aim of this study was to investigate combinatorial role played by MMP-2, TIMP-2 and MMP-14 in ameloblastoma. Transcriptional expression of MMP-2, TIMP-2 and MMP-14 in tissue extracts of 42 ameloblastomas and 10 dental follicles was detected using reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction, and compared difference in clinical type and local recurrence of ameloblastoma. MMP-2, TIMP-2 and MMP-14 mRNA were detected in all investigated ameloblastoma tissues. While MMP-2 mRNA was only expressed in eight of 10 odontotheca tissues and TIMP- 2 and MMP-14 were not found in all odontotheca tissues. The mRNA expression of MMP-2, TIMP-2 and MMP-14 were significantly higher in ameloblastoma tissues than in odontotheca tissues. The mRNA levels of TIMP-2 and MMP-14 were significantly higher in recurrent and solid/multicystic ameloblastoma tissues than in primary and unicystic ameloblastoma tissues respectively. Of the MMP-2/TIMP-2/MMP-14 complex, a high expression of MMP-2, TIMP-2 and MMP-14 mRNA levels may contribute to the local invasive characteristics of ameloblastoma, whereas the local invasive capacity of ameloblastoma is more likely related to a high transcriptional levels of TIMP-2 and MMP-14.

Expression of gelatinases A and B and their endogenous regulators in immortal and transformed fibroblasts

Matrix metalloproteinases (MMP) play a critical role in tumor invasion and metastasis. The aim of this study was to elucidate peculiarity of expression of gelatinases A and B (MMP-2 and MMP-9), membrane type MMP (MT1-MMP) and tissue inhibitor of MMP (TIMP-2) in immortal (IF) and transformed fibroblasts (TF).The study was carried out using embryo rat fibroblasts, sequentially immortalized with the polyomavirus LT gene and transformed with the E7 gene of human papilloma virus (HPV-16). Papilloma virus type 16 and 18 are etiological factors of cervical cancer. The primary fibroblast (PF) culture of Fisher rats was used as control. Analysis of TF and IF involved: determination of MMP-2 and MMP-9 activity by hydrolysis of specific substrate--radioactive collagen type IV; obtaining of MMP spectra by zimographic assay and estimation of the mRNA expression (by RT-PCR) of MMP-2, MMP-9, MT1- MMP and TIMP-2. It was found: 1) collagenolytic activity of MMP was increased only in TF and was dependent on the degree of cell tumorogenity; 2) the study of MMP spectra was shown that MMP-9 was found in TF only but MMP-2 was found in all investigated clones; 3) The mRNA expression of MMP-9, MT1-MMP and TIMP-2 was increased in all TF while the MMP-2 expression was increased in TF only after TF cell selection on rats; 4) The collagenolytic activity as well as the mRNA expression of MMP-2 and MMP-9 themselves and of MMP-2 endogenous regulators (MT1-MMP and TIMP-2) did not change in immortalized fibroblasts compared to PF. The data obtained indicate changes in the enzyme/inhibitor/activator ratio and also suggest of a significant increase in the TF destructive potential. MMP-9 is supposed to be a marker of fibroblasts transformed by E7 HPV-16 gene in cell culture.

Placental expression of proteases and their inhibitors in patients with HELLP syndrome

In preeclampsia and hemolysis, elevated liver enzymes and low platelet (HELLP) syndrome, impaired trophoblast invasion and excessive fibrin deposition in the placental intervillous space is associated with fetal compromise. However, little information is available whether modulation of placental protease expression--potentially causing impaired trophoblast invasion--is associated with the HELLP syndrome. Total RNA and protein were extracted from placental tissue from 11 females with HELLP syndrome and 8 controls matched for gestational age. mRNA expression of matrix metalloprotease (MMP) -2 and -9, tissue inhibitors of metalloprotease (TIMP) -1, -2, and -3, and urokinase-type plasminogen activator receptor (uPAR) was determined by Northern blotting. Protein expression of MMP-2 and -9, and TIMP-1 and -2 was detected by Western blotting and that of uPA, uPAR, and plasminogen activator inhibitor (PAI) -1 by ELISA. In patients with HELLP syndrome, mRNA expression of MMP-2 and TIMP-2 was decreased, whereas TIMP-1 and -3 levels were unchanged. MMP-9 and uPAR mRNA was undetectable in both groups. Protein expression of all investigated proteolytic factors remained unchanged. Our findings at the mRNA level suggest a decrease in matrix remodeling in placentae from patients with HELLP syndrome compared with control pregnancies, although this is not supported at the protein level.

Potent angiogenic inhibition effects of deacetylated chitohexaose separated from chitooligosaccharides and its mechanism of action in vitro

This study was performed to demonstrate the effects of deacetylated chitohexaose (hexamer) separated from a chitooligosaccharide (COS) mixture on tumor angiogenesis and its mechanism of action. Five fractions from dimer to hexamer were separated by a linear gradient solution of HCl on a cation-exchange resin. Then HCl was removed from the fractions by a charcoal column. The purity of the five fractions was analyzed by HPLC and the molecular masses were analyzed by MALDI-TOFMS. The hexamer expressed an inhibitory influence on CAM angiogenesis in a dose-dependent manner at concentrations of 6.25–50 μg/egg. On further investigation, we found that the hexamer had no toxic effect on normal ECV304 cells, but could inhibit the proliferation and migration of tumor-induced ECV304 cells in a dose-dependent manner. The mechanism was demonstrated through the detection of mRNA expression of VEGF, MMP-9, TIMP-1, TIMP-2, and uPA by RT-PCR, which showed that the hexamer down-regulated the VEGF and uPA mRNA expressions in ECV304 cells, but up-regulated the TIMP-1 mRNA expression.

Interleukin-17 regulates chemokine and gelatinase B expression in fibroblasts to recruit both neutrophils and monocytes

Interleukin 17 (IL-17) is a proinflammatory cytokine, produced only by activated lymphocytes, but with a broad cellular host range. The effects of IL-17 on fibroblasts were investigated by analysis of the induction of chemokine and matrix metalloprotease (MMP) mRNA levels by RT-PCR. IL-17 stimulated CC chemokine (monocyte chemotactic protein-1; MCP-1/JE) and CXC (KC, MIP-2) chemokine and TIMP-1 mRNA expression in fibroblastoid L929 cells. In normal mouse embryonic fibroblasts (MEF) this induction profile by IL-17 was extended with the mRNAs encoding the chemokine granulocyte chemotactic protein-2 (GCP-2) and the proteases MMP-3, MMP-9 and MMP-13. The MMP-9 and GCP-2 induction by IL-17 in MEF, and the absence of induction in L929 cells, were corroborated by gelatin zymography and ELISA, respectively. The induction of MCP-1/CCL2 by IL-17 was confirmed in human diploid fibroblasts. We conclude that IL-17 regulates differentially chemokine and MMP expression by normal and transformed fibroblasts and is indirectly capable of attracting both monocytes and neutrophils to the inflammatory focus.

Mechanical force enhances MMP-2 activation via p38 signaling pathway in human retinal pigment epithelial cells

Rhegmatogenous retinal detachment and proliferative vitreoretinopathy (PVR) are eye diseases that are characterized by mechanical stress involving stretching of the retinal pigment epithelial (RPE) cells by the vitreous or the hyperplastic membranes. Here, we assessed whether mechanical force could change the expression of matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) in RPE cells via the mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) pathway. Collagen-coated magnetite beads and magnetic fields were used to apply tensile forces to cultured RPE cells at focal adhesions. Activation of the MAPK, including extracellular signal-regulated protein kinase (ERK), c-jun N-terminal kinase (JNK), and p38 were determined over a time course from 5 to 30 min by Western-blot analysis. Activation of p38 was also tested using immunofluorescence staining. The mRNA levels of MMP-2, MMP-9, tissue inhibitor of MMP (TIMP)-2 and fibronectin (FN) were analyzed by RT-PCR. Active MMP-2 and MMP-9 were demonstrated by zymography. MMP-2 secretion was evaluated by enzyme immunoassay. Stimulation of RPE cells with mechanical stress did not change the total protein expression of the MAPK proteins ERK, JNK, and p38. However, of the three kinases, only active p38 showed an increased protein expression which was also shown by a 2.8-fold increase in immunofluorescence staining at 5 min following mechanical stress stimulation. This increase in active p38 expression was blocked by treating the cells with the p38 inhibitor SB203580. FN mRNA increased 2.4-fold at 15 min and MMP-2 mRNA increased 2.1-fold at 4 h. MMP-2 secretion increased 1.5-fold at 4 h and 1.9-fold at 12 h. The expression of MMP-2 and FN, and the activation and secretion of MMP-2, were inhibited in the presence of SB203580. The mRNA expression of MMP-9 and TIMP-2 did not change throughout. This study shows that mechanical stress upregulates MMP-2 and FN expression through activation of the p38 pathway. The increase in MMP-2 levels evoked by mechanical force may contribute to the remodeling of the extracellular matrix around RPE cells, weakening the interlinkage and membrane attachment between RPE cells, and facilitate cellular migration.

Rhinovirus upregulates matrix metalloproteinase‐2, matrix metalloproteinase‐9, and vascular endothelial growth factor expression in nasal polyp fibroblasts

Upregulation of matrix metalloproteinase (MMP) and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) has been suggested to have an important role in the pathogenesis of nasal polyps (NPs). The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of rhinovirus (RV) infection on the expression of MMPs, tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinase (TIMP)-1, and VEGF in NP fibroblasts. NP fibroblasts (5 x 10(5) cells/mL) obtained from patients with chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyps (CRSwNP) were infected with RV serotype 16 (RV-16) for 4 hours. The RV-16 infection was confirmed by seminested reverse transcriptase-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) and in situ hybridization. After 48 hours, MMP-2, MMP-9, TIMP-1, and VEGF protein levels were measured from culture supernatants by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. The changes in the expression of MMP-2, MMP-9, TIMP-1, and VEGF mRNA were assayed by RT-PCR. RV-16 infection significantly enhanced the gene and protein expressions of MMP-2, MMP-9, and VEGF in NP fibroblasts, whereas TIMP-1 expression was not significantly affected by RV-16. MMP-2, MMP-9, and VEGF protein expression increased by 2.39-, 2.99-, and 3.02-fold, respectively, in RV-infected NP fibroblasts compared to noninfected controls. RV-16 infection also significantly upregulated the expression of MMP-2, MMP-9, and VEGF mRNA by 1.27-, 1.70-, and 1.53-fold, respectively, compared to control levels. These in vitro findings suggest that RV infection may contribute to the pathogenesis of NP formation in patients with CRSwNP.

Human Umbilical Cord Mesenchymal Stem Cells Reduce Fibrosis of Bleomycin-Induced Lung Injury

Acute respiratory distress syndrome is characterized by loss of lung tissue as a result of inflammation and fibrosis. Augmenting tissue repair by the use of mesenchymal stem cells may be an important advance in treating this condition. We evaluated the role of term human umbilical cord cells derived from Wharton's jelly with a phenotype consistent with mesenchymal stem cells (uMSCs) in the treatment of a bleomycin-induced mouse model of lung injury. uMSCs were administered systemically, and lungs were harvested at 7, 14, and 28 days post-bleomycin. Injected uMSCs were located in the lung 2 weeks later only in areas of inflammation and fibrosis but not in healthy lung tissue. The administration of uMSCs reduced inflammation and inhibited the expression of transforming growth factor-beta, interferon-gamma, and the proinflammatory cytokines macrophage migratory inhibitory factor and tumor necrosis factor-alpha. Collagen concentration in the lung was significantly reduced by uMSC treatment, which may have been a consequence of the simultaneous reduction in Smad2 phosphorylation (transforming growth factor-beta activity). uMSCs also increased matrix metalloproteinase-2 levels and reduced their endogenous inhibitors, tissue inhibitors of matrix metalloproteinases, favoring a pro-degradative milieu following collagen deposition. Notably, injected human lung fibroblasts did not influence either collagen or matrix metalloproteinase levels in the lung. The results of this study suggest that uMSCs have antifibrotic properties and may augment lung repair if used to treat acute respiratory distress syndrome.

The expression changes of MMP-9 and TIMP-1 in the brain of neonatal rats with hypoxic-ischemic brain damage(HIBD)

Objective To explore the mechanism of hypoxic-ischemic brain damage(HIBD) and provide new ideas for clinical treatment of hypoxic-iscbemic encephalopathy.Methods Neonatal 7-day-old Wistar rats were randomly divided into sham-operation control group,HIBD 6 h,12 h,24 h,48 h and 72 h groups(n =6 per group).The model of HIBD was induced by unilateral carotid ligation followed by timed exposure to 8% oxygen.The expression of MMP-9 mRNA and TIMP-1 mRNA in brain tissue of neonatal rats was measured by Real-time Q-PCR method.Results (1) The ligatod brainhemisphere of HIBD groups showed obvious edema from 12 h to 48 h after hypoxia -ischemia in the neonatal rats.(2) The expression of MMP-9 mRNA was very low in the sham-operation control group,but in HIBD groups,it began to increase at 6 h,and reached a peak at 24 h,then gradually decreased,but still maintained at high level at 72 h(P＜0.01).(3) The expression of TIMP-1 mRNA was aslo very low in the sham-operation control group.But in HIBD group,it increased slightly at 6 h,12 h and 24 h,compared to the sham-operation control group,each group was statistically significant(P＜0.05),with no significant difference among the three groups(P＞0.05),then decreased at 48 h and 72 h,but with no significant difference from sham-operation control group (P＞ 0.05).(4) The ratio of MMP-9 mRNA/TIMP-1 mRNA was normal in the sham-operation control group and HIBD 6 h group,it began to increase at 12 h,and reached a peak at 48 h,then gradually decreased,but still maintained at high level at 72 h(P ＜0.01).Conclusion Hypoxia-ischemia increases the expression of MMP-9 mRNA in brain tissue of nenatal rats,and the imbalance in the expression of MMP-9 mRNA and TIMP-1 mRNA possibly is one cause of brain edema induced by HIBD. Key words: Cerebral hypoxia; Cerebral ischemia; Neonatal rats; MMP-9; TIMP-1