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Updated: May 8, 2026

Detection of Functional Matrix Metalloproteinases by Zymography
Published on: November 8, 2010
The inhibitory effect of a polymerisable cationic monomer on functional matrix metalloproteinases
Ning Liu1, Fang Li, Yu-Jiang Chen
1Department of Prosthodontics, School of Stomatology, Fourth Military Medical University, Changle Xi Road 145, Xi'an 710032, China.
Objectives:
This study examined the use of methacryloxylethyl cetyl dimethyl ammonium chloride (DMAE-CB) as a potential matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) inhibitor on both soluble recombinant and dentine matrix-bound endogenous MMPs, meanwhile attempted to determine the effective anti-MMP group of quaternary ammonium methacrylates (QAMs).
Methods:
The possible inhibitory effects of five DMAE-CB mass concentrations (0.1%, 0.5%, 1%, 3%, 5%) on soluble rhMMP-9 were measured using a colorimetic assay kit. Methyl methacrylate (MMA) and [2-(methacryloyloxy)ethyl] trimethylammonium chloride (METMAC) were also screened against rhMMP-9 to compare the inhibitory effect with DMAE-CB. Matrix-bound endogenous MMP-activity was evaluated in completely demineralized dentine beams. Thirty beams were randomly divided into three groups (N=10) and respectively placed into 500μL of calcium- and zinc-containing media (CM; control), 0.2% chlorhexidine or 3% DMAE-CB in CM aged for 30 days. The changes in modulus of elasticity, loss of dry mass and solubilization of collagen peptides were measured via three-point bending, precision weighing and hydroxyproline assay, respectively.
Results:
0.5-5% mass concentrations of DMAE-CB were highly effective (P<0.05) in inhibiting rhMMP-9 varied between 76.56±6.44% and 97.06±3.24%, the inhibitory effect of MMA was much lower than that of METMAC and DMAE-CB at the same concentration (P<0.05). Dentine beams incubated in 3% DMAE-CB showed only a 26.34% decrease in the modulus of elasticity (75.74% decrease in control), a 1.72±1.56% loss of dry mass (29.70±9.12% loss in control), and significantly less solubilized hydroxyproline when compared with the control (P<0.05).
Conclusions:
DMAE-CB is effective in inhibiting both soluble recombinant MMPs and matrix-bound dentine MMPs. Quaternary ammonium group is the effective anti-MMP group of QAMs.
Clinical Significance:
The incorporation of DMAE-CB into dental adhesives has the potential to enhance the durability of dentine bonding and thus increases the longevity of restorations.
Insights
Methacryloxylethyl cetyl dimethyl ammonium chloride (DMAE-CB) effectively inhibits matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) in both soluble and dentine-bound forms. This compound shows promise for improving dental adhesive durability and restoration longevity.
Area of Science:
- Biomaterials Science
- Dental Materials
- Biochemistry
Background:
- Matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) are implicated in the degradation of the dentine matrix, potentially compromising the longevity of dental restorations.
- Quaternary ammonium methacrylates (QAMs) are investigated for their potential inhibitory effects on MMPs.
- Methacryloxylethyl cetyl dimethyl ammonium chloride (DMAE-CB) is a specific QAM with potential MMP inhibitory properties.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the efficacy of DMAE-CB as an inhibitor of both soluble recombinant MMPs (rhMMP-9) and endogenous MMPs within the dentine matrix.
- To identify the active anti-MMP functional group within QAMs.
- To assess the potential of DMAE-CB to improve the durability of dentine bonding.
Main Methods:
- Colorimetric assays were used to measure the inhibition of rhMMP-9 by various concentrations of DMAE-CB, methyl methacrylate (MMA), and [2-(methacryloyloxy)ethyl] trimethylammonium chloride (METMAC).
- Dentine beams were incubated with DMAE-CB, chlorhexidine, or a control medium.
- Changes in modulus of elasticity, dry mass loss, and collagen peptide solubilization (hydroxyproline assay) were measured to assess MMP activity in demineralized dentine.
Main Results:
- DMAE-CB demonstrated significant inhibition of rhMMP-9 at concentrations ranging from 0.5% to 5% (76.56%–97.06% inhibition).
- DMAE-CB and METMAC showed superior MMP inhibition compared to MMA.
- Dentine beams treated with 3% DMAE-CB exhibited significantly reduced loss of elasticity and dry mass, and less collagen degradation compared to the control group.
Conclusions:
- DMAE-CB effectively inhibits both soluble and matrix-bound MMPs.
- The quaternary ammonium group is identified as the key anti-MMP moiety in QAMs.
- DMAE-CB holds potential for enhancing dentine bond durability and extending the lifespan of dental restorations.
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