Related Experiment Videos
Human mast cells produce matrix metalloproteinase 9
1Department of Veterinary Clinic, Faculty of Agriculture, Tokyo University of Agriculture and Technology, Fuchu, Tokyo, Japan.
European Journal of Immunology
|August 24, 1999
Summary
Human mast cells produce matrix metalloproteinase-9 (MMP9). This enzyme may contribute to extracellular matrix degradation in allergic and nonallergic inflammatory responses.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Cell Biology
- Biochemistry
Background:
- Extracellular matrix (ECM)-degrading enzymes, such as matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs), are implicated in inflammation and tissue remodeling.
- Mast cells are abundant in tissues undergoing inflammation and remodeling.
- While mast cells can activate other MMPs, their own production of MMP9 was previously unestablished.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate whether human mast cells produce and secrete matrix metalloproteinase-9 (MMP9).
Main Methods:
- Reverse-transcriptase PCR (RT-PCR) to detect MMP9 mRNA.
- Gelatin zymography to assess enzymatic activity.
- Western blot analysis using an anti-MMP9 antibody.
- Immunohistochemistry to localize MMP9 in tissue mast cells.
Main Results:
- Cultured human mast cells (cord blood-derived and HMC-1) expressed MMP9 mRNA.
- Conditioned media from these cells exhibited MMP9-identical gelatinolytic activity.
- Mast cells in skin, lung, and synovial tissues showed strong positive MMP9 immunoreactivity.
Conclusions:
- Human mast cells are a source of MMP9.
- Mast cell-derived MMP9 may play a role in ECM degradation during allergic and nonallergic inflammatory processes.