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Elevated MMP-12 protein levels in induced sputum from patients with COPD

I K Demedts1, A Morel-Montero, S Lebecque

  • 1Department of Respiratory Diseases, Ghent University Hospital 7K12-IE, De Pintelaan 185, B-9000 Ghent, Belgium. M.DemedtsIngelK@UGent.be

Thorax
|November 26, 2005
PubMed
Abstract

Insights

Matrix metalloproteinase-12 (MMP-12) is significantly elevated in the sputum of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) patients. This finding suggests MMP-12 plays a key role in the development of COPD in smokers.

Area of Science:

  • Pulmonary Medicine
  • Biochemistry
  • Enzymology

Background:

  • Matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) contribute to chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) pathogenesis.
  • MMP-12 is implicated in mouse models of cigarette smoke-induced emphysema.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the role of MMP-12 in the development of COPD in human smokers.
  • To compare MMP-12 levels and activity in COPD patients versus control groups.

Main Methods:

  • Induced sputum samples were collected from stable COPD patients, healthy smokers, never smokers, and former smokers.
  • MMP-12 protein levels were quantified using ELISA.
  • MMP-12 enzymatic activity was assessed via casein zymography and a fluorescence quenched substrate assay.

Main Results:

  • MMP-12 protein levels were significantly higher in COPD patients compared to all control groups (p = 0.0002).
  • MMP-12 enzymatic activity was also significantly elevated in COPD patients versus controls (p = 0.0002).

Conclusions:

  • MMP-12 is markedly increased in induced sputum of stable COPD patients.
  • Elevated MMP-12 suggests a significant role in the pathogenesis of COPD in smokers.

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