Related Experiment Video
Updated: Aug 2, 2026
09:30
Detection of Functional Matrix Metalloproteinases by Zymography
Published on: November 9, 2010
A possible role for metalloproteinases in renal cyst development
N Obermüller1, N Morente, B Kränzlin
1Medical Research Center, Klinikum Mannheim, University of Heidelberg, 68167 Mannheim, Germany.
American Journal of Physiology. Renal Physiology
|February 22, 2001
Summary
Matrix metalloproteinase inhibitors show promise for treating polycystic kidney disease. Targeting these enzymes reduced cyst growth and kidney weight in a rat model, suggesting a new therapeutic avenue.
Area of Science:
- Nephrology
- Oncology
- Biochemistry
Background:
- Polycystic kidney disease (PKD) cyst expansion resembles extracellular matrix invasion by tumors.
- Cyst-lining epithelial cells may produce matrix-degrading enzymes.
Purpose of the Study:
- Hypothesize that metalloproteinases are involved in PKD cyst growth.
- Investigate metalloproteinase inhibitors as a therapeutic strategy for PKD.
Main Methods:
- In situ hybridization to analyze gene expression in a (cy/+) rat model of autosomal-dominant PKD.
- Treatment of (cy/+) rats with the metalloproteinase inhibitor batimastat.
Main Results:
- Upregulated matrix metalloproteinase-14 (MMP-14) mRNA found in cyst-lining epithelia and distal tubules.
- Transforming growth factor-beta2 (TGF-beta2) expressed by cyst wall epithelia.
- Batimastat treatment significantly reduced cyst number and kidney weight.
Conclusions:
- Metalloproteinases are implicated in the pathogenesis of PKD.
- Metalloproteinase inhibitors represent a potential therapeutic approach for PKD.
- This strategy may be applicable regardless of the specific PKD background.
More Related Videos
Related Concept Videos
01:42The Extracellular Matrix
In order to maintain tissue organization, many animal cells are surrounded by structural molecules that make up the extracellular matrix (ECM). Together, the molecules in the ECM maintain the structural integrity of tissue as well as the remarkable specific properties of certain tissues.Composition of the Extracellular MatrixThe extracellular matrix (ECM) is commonly composed of ground substance, a gel-like fluid, fibrous components, and many structurally and functionally diverse molecules.
01:29The Extracellular Matrix
Overview
In order to maintain tissue organization, many animal cells are surrounded by structural molecules that make up the extracellular matrix (ECM). Together, the molecules in the ECM maintain the structural integrity of tissue as well as the remarkable specific properties of certain tissues.
Composition of the Extracellular Matrix
The extracellular matrix (ECM) is commonly composed of ground substance, a gel-like fluid, fibrous components, and many structurally and functionally diverse...
In order to maintain tissue organization, many animal cells are surrounded by structural molecules that make up the extracellular matrix (ECM). Together, the molecules in the ECM maintain the structural integrity of tissue as well as the remarkable specific properties of certain tissues.
Composition of the Extracellular Matrix
The extracellular matrix (ECM) is commonly composed of ground substance, a gel-like fluid, fibrous components, and many structurally and functionally diverse...
01:23Role of Matrix Metalloproteases in Degradation of ECM
Matrix metalloproteases (MMPs) are enzymes involved in the hydrolysis of proteins and glycoproteins of the extracellular matrix. MMPs are essential for the migration and proliferation of cells through the dense matrix network, throughout embryonic development, and throughout morphogenesis. The first MMP activity discovered was a collagenase in a tadpole's tail undergoing metamorphosis. The active collagen deposition and modifications lead to the morphogenesis of tadpoles into the adult body.
A...
A...
01:28Urinary Tract Calculi I: Introduction
Renal calculi, or kidney stones, are solid deposits of minerals and salts formed inside the kidneys. In medical terminology, "calculus" refers to the stone itself, while "lithiasis" describes the process of stone formation. Depending on their location within the urinary system, these stones may be classified as either urolithiasis, when situated within the urinary tract, or nephrolithiasis, when located within the kidneys. Each term signifies the specific impact of the stone.Predisposition...
01:26Urinary Tract Calculi II: Pathophysiology and Clinical Manifestations
Renal calculi, commonly termed kidney stones, are crystalline solid masses that form in the kidneys but can occur at any point within the urinary system, encompassing the kidneys, ureters, bladder, and urethra.The pathophysiology of renal stones involves several key factors: supersaturation of the urine with stone-forming constituents, changes in urine pH, a decrease in urine volume, and the presence of substances that promote or inhibit stone formation.Supersaturation of Urine: This is the...
01:30Urinary Tract Calculi III: Medical Management
The diagnosis of renal calculi involves several imaging techniques, including non-contrast CT scans and ultrasound. These methods help visualize kidney stones, assess their size and location, and detect possible obstructions. Additionally, Measuring urine pH is useful for diagnosing specific stone types, such as struvite (alkaline pH) and uric acid stones (acidic pH). Cystine stones are primarily linked to cystinuria, a genetic condition. A urinalysis helps detect blood in the urine (hematuria)...