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Metalloproteinases in canine experimental traumatic keratoconjunctivitis
1Department of Surgery, Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Selçuk, Konya, Turkey.
Abstract:
Matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) are thought to be involved in eye disease and may be present in tears. MMP activity was measured by gelatine zymography. Active gelatinase levels were determined by a gelatine degradation ELISA. Potential MMP-9 (gelatinase-B) monomer enzyme activity was elevated (P < 0.001) in keratoconjunctivitis in comparison to normal tears. MMP-9, dimer form, enzyme activity was elevated (P < 0.001) in fluids from keratoconjunctivitis cases in comparison to fluids from normal eyes. Significant increases in gelatinase bioactivities were seen in tears from keratoconjunctivitis disease cases (P < 0.01). Enzymes in dogs with eye disease were biologically active indicating that both the active forms of the enzyme were present. Hence, they could be an important indicator in deterioration of the cornea during eye disease.
Insights
Matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs), particularly MMP-9, were significantly elevated in the tears of dogs with keratoconjunctivitis. These findings suggest MMPs may indicate corneal deterioration in canine eye diseases.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Veterinary Medicine
- Biochemistry
Background:
- Matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) are implicated in various ocular diseases.
- MMPs, including MMP-9 (gelatinase-B), may be present and active in tear fluid.
- Understanding MMP activity is crucial for diagnosing and managing canine eye conditions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the presence and activity of MMPs in the tears of dogs with keratoconjunctivitis.
- To determine if MMP-9 levels correlate with the severity of canine eye disease.
- To assess the potential of MMPs as biomarkers for corneal deterioration.
Main Methods:
- Tear samples were collected from dogs diagnosed with keratoconjunctivitis and healthy controls.
- Gelatine zymography was employed to measure overall MMP activity.
- Gelatine degradation ELISA was used to quantify active gelatinase levels, specifically MMP-9.
Main Results:
- Elevated monomer and dimer enzyme activity of MMP-9 was observed in tears from keratoconjunctivitis cases compared to normal tears (P < 0.001).
- Gelatinase bioactivities were significantly increased in tears associated with keratoconjunctivitis disease (P < 0.01).
- The presence of biologically active MMP forms indicates their direct involvement in the disease process.
Conclusions:
- Matrix metalloproteinases, particularly MMP-9, are significantly elevated and biologically active in the tears of dogs with keratoconjunctivitis.
- These findings highlight the potential role of MMPs as important indicators of corneal deterioration in canine eye diseases.
- Further research into MMPs could lead to improved diagnostic tools and therapeutic strategies for veterinary ophthalmology.