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Matrix metalloproteinase (MMP) expression in experimental choroidal neovascularization
1Department of Ophthalmology, St. Erik's Eye Hospital, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden. ankvanta@swipnet.se
Current Eye Research
|December 20, 2000
Summary
Matrix metalloproteinase-2 (MMP-2) mRNA expression significantly increases in experimental choroidal neovascularization (CNV) in rats. This finding supports MMP-2
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Molecular Biology
- Biochemistry
Background:
- Matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) are enzymes degrading extracellular matrix.
- MMP-2 and MMP-9 are implicated in ocular neovascularization.
- Choroidal neovascularization (CNV) is a key feature of age-related macular degeneration.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the role of MMP-2 and MMP-9 in experimental CNV.
- To analyze the mRNA expression of MMP-2 and MMP-9 in a rat model of CNV.
Main Methods:
- CNV was induced in rats using krypton laser photocoagulation.
- Eyes were enucleated at various time points (1-60 days).
- In situ hybridization was used to analyze MMP-2 and MMP-9 mRNA expression.
Main Results:
- MMP-2 mRNA expression was low in untreated eyes but markedly increased in laser-treated eyes.
- Increased MMP-2 mRNA was localized to macrophage-like and RPE-like cells.
- MMP-2 mRNA expression peaked at day 10 post-laser treatment.
- MMP-9 mRNA expression remained low and did not increase after laser treatment.
Conclusions:
- MMP-2 mRNA expression is upregulated in experimental CNV.
- These findings support a role for MMP-2 in the pathogenesis of CNV.
- MMP-2 may be a therapeutic target for age-related macular degeneration.