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Updated: May 30, 2026
Detection of Functional Matrix Metalloproteinases by Zymography
Published on: November 8, 2010
Detection of matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)-2 and MMP-9 in canine seminal plasma
Wipawee Saengsoi1, Wei-Yau Shia, Ching-Lin Shyu
1Department of Veterinary Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, National Chung-Hsing University, Taichung, Taiwan.
Abstract:
Matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) are a family of proteolytic enzymes that play a central role in degradation of protein components of the extracellular matrix and basement membrane. Previous studies have shown that MMP-2 and MMP-9 are present in human seminal plasma, but there is little information available on the presence of MMPs in canine seminal plasma. This study aims to investigate the presence of MMPs in canine seminal plasma and their clinical manifestation at the level of various semen parameters in canine species. Latent and active forms of MMP-2 and MMP-9 were evaluated using gelatin zymography and their association with semen parameters was examined. Results demonstrate that both latent and active forms of MMP-2 and MMP-9 are present in canine seminal plasma and the latent forms are predominant. The latent and active MMP-9 activities were elevated in the semen with unsatisfactory quality traits and proMMP-2 was inversely correlated with semen quality whereas, MMP-2 was positively correlated with semen quality traits. These findings suggest that proMMP-9 and MMP-9 activation contributes to the variation in semen, while the activation of MMP-2 improves the sperm functionality.
Insights
Matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) in canine seminal plasma, including MMP-2 and MMP-9, were investigated. Elevated MMP-9 indicates poor semen quality, while activated MMP-2 suggests improved sperm function.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Science
- Reproductive Biology
- Biochemistry
Background:
- Matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) are crucial for extracellular matrix remodeling.
- MMP-2 and MMP-9 are known components of human seminal plasma.
- Limited data exists on MMP presence and function in canine seminal plasma.
Purpose of the Study:
- To detect MMP-2 and MMP-9 in canine seminal plasma.
- To assess the correlation between MMP levels and canine semen quality parameters.
- To elucidate the role of MMPs in canine sperm functionality.
Main Methods:
- Gelatin zymography was employed to evaluate latent and active forms of MMP-2 and MMP-9.
- Seminal plasma samples from canines were analyzed.
- Statistical analysis correlated MMP activity with semen quality metrics.
Main Results:
- Both latent and active forms of MMP-2 and MMP-9 were identified in canine seminal plasma, with latent forms predominating.
- Elevated MMP-9 activity was associated with unsatisfactory semen quality traits.
- ProMMP-2 showed an inverse correlation with semen quality, while active MMP-2 correlated positively.
Conclusions:
- MMP-9 activity and its activation appear to contribute to variations in canine semen quality.
- MMP-2 activation is linked to enhanced sperm functionality in canines.
- These findings highlight the differential roles of MMP-2 and MMP-9 in canine reproductive health.
