Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jun 24, 2026

Live Imaging Assay for Assessing the Roles of Ca2+ and Sphingomyelinase in the Repair of Pore-forming Toxin Wounds
Published on: August 25, 2013
Matrix metalloproteinase-1 expression induced by IL-1beta requires acid sphingomyelinase
Jessica Bauer1, Christian Huy, Julia Brenmoehl
1Department of Internal Medicine I, University Hospital Regensburg, Regensburg, Germany.
Abstract:
Matrix metalloproteinase-1 (MMP-1) is increased in inflammatory conditions leading to destruction of extracellular matrix. Many inflammatory stimuli activate sphingomyelinases (SMases), which generate ceramide. We aimed to define the relevance and type of SMase responsible for the regulation of MMP-1. Acid sphingomyelinase (ASM)-deficient human fibroblasts failed to phosphorylate extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK), or upregulate MMP-1 mRNA and protein expression upon stimulation with interleukin-1 beta (IL-1beta), whereas phosphorylation of p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase and IL-8 production remained unaffected. Transfection of ASM restored MMP-1 production. Addition of exogenous SMase was sufficient to restore activation of ERK and increase MMP-1 mRNA. Inhibition of ASM with imipramine completely abrogated MMP-1 induction. The results suggest that IL-1beta-induced expression of MMP-1 is dependent on ASM.
Related Concept Videos
Role of Matrix Metalloproteases in Degradation of ECM
A...
IP3/DAG Signaling Pathway
The JAK-STAT Signaling Pathway
