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Published on: February 15, 2019
Inhibitory effect of Aspergillus fumigatus extract on matrix metalloproteinases expression
Farshid Saadat1, Kamiar Zomorodian, Mohammad Pezeshki
1Division of Biotechnology, Department of Pathobiology, School of Public Health and Institute of Public Health Research, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, P.O. Box: 14155-6446, Tehran, Iran.
Background:
Matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) play a role in several physiologic and pathologic events. There are some evidence indicating the involvement of MMPs in the pathophysiology of fungal infections.
Methods:
Here we study somatic extract of Aspergillus fumigatus. The influence of Aspergillus vs. two other fungal extracts on MMPs production by Fibrosarcoma cell line was investigated using an in vitro cytotoxicity assay, sodium dodecyl sulfate-polyacrylamide and gelatin zymography.
Results:
Comparative dose-dependent inhibitory effects on MMPs were seen by A. fumigatus extract and compared with some steroidal and non-steroidal drugs. Cytotoxicity analysis of our extract revealed much lower cell death than other examined agents.
Conclusions:
Since inhibition of MMPs activity has been employed in modality therapy in such diseases as cancer, this extract might be promising in the preparation of anti-MMP therapeutic derivatives.
Insights
Aspergillus fumigatus extract inhibits matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) production, showing lower cytotoxicity than other agents. This fungal extract may offer potential for developing anti-MMP cancer therapies.
Area of Science:
- Biochemistry
- Mycology
- Cell Biology
Background:
- Matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) are implicated in physiological and pathological processes.
- Evidence suggests MMPs play a role in the pathophysiology of fungal infections.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the effect of Aspergillus fumigatus somatic extract on MMPs production.
- To compare the extract's influence with other fungal extracts and therapeutic agents.
Main Methods:
- In vitro cytotoxicity assay using a Fibrosarcoma cell line.
- Sodium dodecyl sulfate-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis and gelatin zymography to analyze MMPs production.
- Comparative analysis with steroidal and non-steroidal drugs.
Main Results:
- Aspergillus fumigatus extract demonstrated dose-dependent inhibition of MMPs.
- The fungal extract exhibited significantly lower cytotoxicity compared to other tested agents.
- Comparative efficacy against MMPs was observed against steroidal and non-steroidal drugs.
Conclusions:
- Inhibition of MMPs is a therapeutic strategy for diseases like cancer.
- The Aspergillus fumigatus extract shows promise for developing novel anti-MMP therapeutic derivatives.
- This extract could be a valuable source for anti-cancer drug development.

